Interactive Tool For Picky Preschoolers
Parents of picky children now have a new food pyramid to abide by, just in time for the Christmas holiday.
The new federal government food pyramid for preschoolers offers individualized nutrition guidance to meet the needs of children aged 2 to 5.
The MyPyramid for Preschoolers interactive Web site (MyPyramid.gov) was developed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion (CNPP).
"This is a great tool for all parents of preschoolers but particularly those of finicky eaters. It’s loaded with great ideas and suggestions for families so they can help their kids eat a more varied and nutritious diet. What I find most useful is how to talk with kids about what to eat and tips on how to have fun with food around the dinner table," CNPP executive director Brian Wansink wrote in a news release.
The MyPyramid for Preschoolers tells parents to set reasonable limits for the start and end of a meal. When you see your child is no longer interested in the meal, excuse the child from the table.
The government website also says to encourage your child to try new foods, but don’t lecture or force your child to eat. Also, talk about fun and happy things as part of an overall effort to make mealtimes stress-free.
MyPyramid even says to cook together, and encourage preschoolers to help prepare meals and snacks.
The new website also offers an interactive tool where users can create a customized eating plan, physical activity outlines to teach preschoolers how to be active, and food safety.
"In addition to the broad spectrum of topic areas covered on this site, are the interactive components, including a customized MyPyramid Plan that can be printed and posted on the refrigerator door," Wansink said.
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