Picky eaters are a common reputation among kids, and this may persist until a certain age. Despite having a large appetite, picky eaters are less inclined to try new foods. Losing the desire to eat, though, is something entirely other. Additional than merely the food’s flavor, there may be other causes. Children may get disinterested in mealtimes if there is no established eating schedule, the food is not “presented” to their taste, or they become bored while eating.
There are various strategies to encourage your child to eat meals with you, and even tiny psychological adjustments may make your youngster look forward to mealtimes.
Focusing on the T-A-S-T-E, according to Pooja R Singhania, founder of Nourish 1000 Days, would rekindle a child’s interest in food.
1. Timing: Wouldn’t it be upsetting if the sun rose at a different time every day? The same is true for mealtimes. The child feels secure since meals are always served at the same time each day. A child’s day follows a rhythm, much like nature does. Children experience some degree of anxiety when mealtimes and locations are frequently changed.
2. Setting: Give the child the feel of a great eating experience. Start by washing your hands, setting up a clean table and chair, a spotless dish and spoon, a clean napkin to wipe your hands on, and selecting a peaceful and quiet environment. The child’s appetite is further stimulated by this.
3. Show: Ambience and appearance are related. A child’s senses will be stimulated by food that is presented attractively—neatly prepared, divided into sections, and colored. Because a child’s senses are so developed, it is essential to successfully engage them.
4. Texture (age-appropriate): We might enjoy soft chapatis, silky hummus, and crunchy fox nuts but not crispy dosas. Children also consume using their senses, and how something feels has a big impact on whether or not they will eat it.
5. Energy: Create a positive energy environment around the food by sitting down as a family, setting electronics aside, praying together, and having uplifting talks. This promotes a favorable association with meals, which are the most treasured memories.
Apart from the tips, there are some more suggestions for your child to increase his/her appetite.
30 minutes prior to mealtime, provide water
Even before milk, kids should drink water first thing in the morning. Additionally, they should drink water 30 minutes before meals. These fundamentals are quite beneficial!
Feed your pet every two hours
Food should be supplied to kids who complain about not being hungry enough every couple of hours. They could not be getting enough digestive system stimulation from the recommended three meals to feel hungry. Regularly eating every two hours will also be beneficial. Try it!
Snacks can be meals
If you want to increase your appetite, snacks should be just as excellent as meals. Offer a sandwich in place of a cookie, and muesli or cereal in place of chips. Consider substituting healthy foods for snacks, and pay attention to how your child’s appetite has changed.
Offer fresh lime juiceÂ
Instead of giving your child water when he or she fusses over meals and claims not to be hungry, try giving them sweetened fresh lime juice. Lime enhances appetite and digestion.
Keep tense subjects off the dinner table
As family time is rare, parents occasionally talk about money or schedule the child’s schooling during mealtimes. Having stated that, refrain from having tense or important conversations while eating. The appetite of a child is killed. Try joking around with them, and watch them clear the dishes.
