Many children enjoy snack time, and eating foods that are good for you is rewarding. But children will often try to sneak snack foods that are not as healthy. Foods like candy, doughnuts and cookies can mess with their energy levels and cause more cavities. Instead of making your children feel bad for sneaking junk food encourage them to eat healthy foods. These tips can help.
1. Don’t Make them Feel Bad.
Instead of shaming your children, talk to them as an adult. Your children have feelings too and when you talk to them rather then punish them they will understand the big picture more. Many children sneak food because they are hungry or looking for an adventure. When you ask your children what their needs are they can be meet easier. You can work with them to make good choices.
2. Don’t Reward Them with Food.
Giving your children food as a reward will increase the behavior. Instead praise them and play with them. Children enjoy time spend with their family and taking them to food treats will reinforce the habit of food as a reward.
3. Don’t have Junk Food In the House.
You don’t have to avoid eating foods that are considered junk food, you just don’t have to have them in the house. Instead of having chips, candy and ice cream, give your children healthy snacks like carrots and yogurt. Both carrots and yogurt can improve their oral health. The calcium rich yogurt will build strong bones and teeth.
4. Eat with your children.
You are always setting a good example. When you don’t even realize your children are eating and studying you. Spend time with them and eat with them at each meal. This can help build the bound and encourage them to continue healthy habits.
5. Brush Your Teeth With Them
Studies show that children who practice good oral health habits next to their parents continue these habits as adults. Spend time with your children each day, including brushing and flossing your teeth. You can brush your teeth after each meal, which will help instill how important it is to care for your teeth. Children will respond to this positive behavior says, Dr. Prashant Gagneja, pediatric dentist Vancouver WA.
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