Summarize the following:
Children learn what they live, making it vital that parents set the right example with their own food choices. If parents are routinely eating and snacking on unhealthy foods, how can children be expected to do any differently? Setting the right example to get children to eat right requires parental self-discipline. Parents need to provide loving and firm guidance in making healthy and wise choices regarding food and snacks. It is most important to eat plenty of vegetables and fruits yourself. If you model positive behaviors, chances are your kids will copy you. Watch your body and facial expression as well when you try something new. In infancy, children often get fruit and vegetable baby foods, once they start eating table food, what you eat is going to be a big influence on what your kids like to eat. If you rarely serve vegetables with meals or eat fruit, don't be surprised if your kids develop the same habit. Children typically do not like changes being made to their routines, so expect children to express their dislike to newly implemented changes in the family meal plan. Calmly explain that "this is what we're having for dinner", and if children adamantly refuse to eat the planned meal, simply cover it and save it for when they say they're hungry. Remember, your home is not a cafeteria-style restaurant where children dictate what they will or will not eat. When the child later says they are hungry, simply say "Well that's good because I saved your dinner for you", then reheat as needed. For example, carrots have vitamin A which is good for skin and eyes. Make the connections between food and what it does for our bodies. For example, have them help when making salads or main meals together. They will be able to recognize what they are eating if they get to see it and feel it. It's also a great chance to discuss the food and get to understand its value better.
Set the right example. Offer your children many different types of foods and let them see you eat and enjoy various foods, especially fruit and vegetables. Expect some resistance and be ready to deal with it. Explain to children what each vegetable contains by way of providing healthy benefits. Get the children involved with kitchen preparation.