Meal times with a 5 year old
Every family is different and makes their own rules, but in my house this works best for my daughter & me in the end.
Rules during meal time:
1. She has to try a bite of each food item, “some bunny nibble” - the only way it counts as trying is when it’s enough to chew and get the taste in her mouth and swallows it. If she then still doesn’t want or like it, she won’t eat more.
2. Tummy breaks - we adults need to remember our kids have MUCH SMALLER stomachs than we do. We may eat plate #2 and yet they’re still on the first small serving. My daughter will eat a good chunk of what’s on her plate and if she says “I’m full” I will ask if she’s done or needs a tummy break. Most of the time she needs a tummy break. A tummy break is simply her walking away out of site from the food. It gives herself time to digest what was already eaten, and gives more room for more food. Typically she will come back to finish her plate, but some days she will come back and say “my tummy feels done, can I clean up please?” My answer is ALWAYS yes
3. at every meal I have a small bowl portion of foods I know she WILL eat, if I’m not so sure she’ll eat dinner. I leave it aside until she expresses she won’t eat any more of that food. The other reason I do this is that there are some nights where she may feel overwhelmed or overtired and needing comfort food, over a full cooked “fancy” meal.. Mac and cheese and nuggets are tonight’s dinner. Easy• healthy for the most part• (she had fruit and veggie cups on the side)• she ate a ton before taking her tummy break. (She will be back for more lol) 😂
Just because a kid isn’t eating their entire plate at the sit down time, doesn’t mean they’re not hungry, or hate the food options. Slow down your routine, allow time for their little tummies to rest and digest, and create an easier less stressful meal time.
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When it comes to mealtimes with a young child, patience and creativity are key. Kids have unique attitudes towards food, making the dining experience challenging yet rewarding. Start by encouraging your child to try at least one bite of each item on their plate—this sets the stage for trying new flavors without pressure. Establishing meal rules can help children focus on their eating. Consider implementing 'tummy breaks,' allowing children to step away from their plates to let their small stomachs digest before taking more bites. This not only aids digestion but also helps them tune into their hunger cues better. To make things easier on particularly hectic nights, have a selection of comfort foods available—ones you know your child enjoys. Options like mac and cheese or chicken nuggets can be lifesavers on overwhelming days. Introducing a balance of familiar and new foods encourages experimentation at their own pace. Lastly, remember that a child's appetite can fluctuate significantly. Some days they might eat heartily, while on others, they may pick at their food. Being flexible creates a healthier relationship with mealtimes, diminishing the stress often associated with getting kids to eat well. As you navigate these challenges, support from parenting communities can provide additional tips and encouragement, making mealtimes a joyful mission for both you and your child.