1 To cut down on the amount of snacking (and empty calories), make proper meals that are substantial enough to keep your child satisfied until the next meal time.
2 As much as is possible, have meals ready on time. For example, if dinner isn't being served until 7:00 the child may have had an array of snack foods while waiting for the meal.
3 Keep healthy snacks on hand and packed in your child's lunch kit. Chips are alright once in a while but it's best to have fresh and dried fruits, home-made bread, muffins, old- time ice cream soda or fruit and milk shakes. Also try fruit icicles. To make, pour mango or any juice of your choice, in ice cube trays and freeze.
4 Encourage eating as a family-time activity and turn off the television. In addition to bonding, it allows you to keep an eye on what your children are eating.
5 Make sure your child has a solid breakfast, it may be the key to the rest of the day. A bowl of porridge never fails, for example.
If your child doesn't have a hearty appetite don't push the issue. Instead forcing her to eat a whole bowl of porridge or soup, for example, let her have just a cup or even half a cup instead.
6 Children who leave home early for school should have something to eat in the car. Sandwich, milk/juice, fruits and yoghurt, for example.
Get your children involved in meal planning and preparation, whenever possible. They'll be interested in eating it if they've had a hand in preparing it.
7 Encourage older children to take pride in making simple recipes.
8 If your child wants a steady diet of one particular food, give it to him but make sure you add items from the other food groups for a better balanced meal.
