child care eating challenges – eXtension Alliance for Better Child Care

August 15, 2019August 15, 2019

Eating Behaviors and Challenges in Child Care

Infant eating baby food

Feeding young children healthy, well-balanced meals and snacks supports their growth and development. But what can a child care provider do when children suddenly stop eating, or refuse to try new foods, or insist on eating one specific thing for every meal? The following articles address typical changes in young children’s eating habits and food preferences at different ages, and provide some tips for ensuring that children develop healthy attitudes about food.

Helping Children in Child Care Learn Healthy Eating

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August 15, 2019August 15, 2019

Tips for Child Care Providers to Promote Healthy Attitudes about Food

Toddler eating pear

As children grow and experience new foods, child care providers may notice changes in eating habits or attitudes about certain foods. The following are important tips for child care providers to prevent unhealthy attitudes about food.

Accept different levels of food intake. Never force a child to eat. It is normal for children to eat a lot one day and almost nothing the next. If you offer choices from each of the food groups every day, children will adjust and

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