Preschool nutrition can be taught. In this age group, children become less likely to throw tantrums and more willing to cooperate. Children of this age try to please their parents. Pre-schoolers want to do things themselves, but they are also willing to learn from you. This give-and-take creates opportunities for you to teach your child about healthy food choices in new and exciting ways.

Energise their diet

Preschool children are more sophisticated eaters and are well aware of their food preferences than younger children. They often enjoy eating as part of a group because they can take part in social activities. Give your child a choice of healthy foods at consistent mealtimes to ensure adequate preschool nutrition. Milk and milk products should be included to meet the calcium need of the growing bones.

Limit the intake of juices and sweetened beverages. Instead, give fruit and grain-based foods like sandwiches, biscuits, and noodles for snacks. Give sweets only in moderation, because they are high in calories but have a low nutrient value. Encourage your child to make good choices without hovering and make sure to provide a variety of healthy foods and a balanced diet — one that gives him the necessary nutrients and energy to explore new things. Through eating right and playing hard, your child can maintain a healthy weight and stay energised, as he gets ready for the next big step – school.

It is normal to want your child to eat at dinner, but it is also important to know that skipping one meal will not harm a healthy child. When your child refuses to eat a regular meal or snack and then returns to the kitchen just as it is cleaned up asking for something to eat, tell him pleasantly that the next meal or snack will be coming at the usual time. Children will not starve in that short time and will learn to observe a regular eating schedule.

This is a good time to teach your child how to serve food to himself and to use language skills such as ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ when asking for food. Pre-schoolers also enjoy helping in the kitchen and setting the table.

Identifying picky eaters

Preschool children may become picky eaters (also known as ‘fussy eaters’) and avoid certain food, or eat only a limited number of foods. Find out if your child is a picky eater here!

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