Toddlers are inhaling French fries, pizza, candy, and soda in record numbers because they are mimicking adults eating habits.  This is counterproductive because the best time to teach dietary habits is during those early, most impressionable years.  Poor diets in adults are linked to chronic conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes.  We all know what a healthy diet consists of â€" lots of whole grains, fruits and vegetables.  Of course, the best way to show your children what a healthy diet entails is by adhering to one yourself. 

There are many ways to instill healthy eating habits in our youngsters.  Letting kids help in the preparation and clean up of meals will boost their self esteem and show them that healthy food can taste good, also.  Take them to local farmers markets so they can feel a sense of community and see that food isn't only sold in supermarkets.  Replace plastic "play" food replicas of donuts and cookies with fruits and vegetables. 

Awhile back, I sat for 3 children and the mother would correspond a specific dinner to each day of the week.  Some of the meals consisted of pea soup, hamburger helper, and pesto angel hair pasta which they referred to as "green spaghetti."  Needless to say, supper time was a constant up hill battle.  It was me against them with strict orders from the matriarch to force feed the children.  I could never bring myself to do that, instead I would discard of the food somehow (that will remain a mystery).  Their mother and her children could have benefited from the following tips. 

Serve your children small child size portions, let them ask for seconds, and don't rush them through eating.  If they refuse to eat dinner, it's OK, simple give them a nutritional snack later on.  Serve a variety of foods to prevent them from getting bored easily.  Make sure the meals are visually pleasing so they will want to chow down.  Kid's stomachs are small, so serve wholesome snacks in between meals.  Also, don't push too many healthy foods on them as they will deviate as soon as they leave the house.  It is human nature to want something you can't get.  Meal time habits you create now will lead to a lifetime of healthier choices.