Fact Sheets no. Parents and care givers influence the eating habits of children through the foods they serve and the examples they set. Use the Food Guide Pyramid when planning meals and snacks for children.
Planned snacks can be an excellent way to get needed nutrients into a child's diet.
Children triple their weight during their first year, then add approximately one birth weight every year until they reach puberty. During this time, their rate of growth slows considerably, teeth erupt and motor skills develop. Never force children to eat or finish everything on their plates and give children ample time to finish eating. Focus on the positive. Praise children for trying new foods or eating most of the food on their plates, rather than criticizing them when they do not eat.