Reading About Healthy Eating
Here's What To Do
1
Read a book about healthy eating with your child.
2
While you’re reading, talk about how healthy foods make your body feel, and how it helps you to stay healthy.
3
Make a healthy eating commitment with your child and try and practice it!
4
Celebrate each day you keep your commitment together! It’s hard, we know!
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Find a cozy reading corner and cuddle in together. It’s time to read!
E
Engage:
- “What are some of the healthy foods that this book talks about?”
- “Why do you think we should eat healthy foods?”
E
Encourage:
- Highlight when your child is eating something healthy, “You ate all of your carrots! Carrots have vitamins and help our eyes to see!”
- If your child craves sugary snacks, avoid saying no all the time. Acknowledge that most of us love sweet things, and help them make wise choices.
R
Reflect:
- “What is your favorite healthy food?”
Not quite ready?
Involve your child in meal planning and preparation. They’re more likely to try healthy foods if they’re involved.
Ready for more?
Ask your child to describe what happens when they eat foods that are not as healthy, or unhealthy. “How does your body feel when you eat a lot of candy?”
As your child masters this skill...
They will explore healthy eating and drinking choices with trusted adults.