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    Diabetes

    Making and Enjoying Meals with Your Child

    Cooking and eating together is the best way to teach kids healthy eating habits. Kids need meal routines, just like they need bedtime routines. So make mealtime a family time. Let your child help prepare meals. Eat sitting together at the table. And turn off the TV so you can talk as a family.

    Family mealtimes

    Family mealtimes should be about eating, not arguing over food. Here are some tips:

    • Serve your child small portions. Your child can ask for more if they are still hungry.
    • Don't force your child to finish the meal. Your child should stop eating when they feel full.
    • If your child chooses not to eat, don't force them. But do turn off the TV and put away the toys. And make sure your child joins the family at the table. Let your child know that mealtimes are for sitting at the table, talking as a family, and enjoying the meal.

    Your child can help!

    Man and boy washing strawberries in sink.

    Kids may be more likely to try new foods if they get to help make them. Even young kids can perform small tasks to help prepare meals and snacks. Here are some of the things that your child can do:

    3-year-olds

    4-year-olds

    5-year-olds

    Wrap potatoes in foil

    Mix ingredients

    Place things in trash

    Wipe tables

    Tear lettuce

    Wash produce

    Same as 3-year-olds plus:

    Peel oranges or hard-boiled eggs

    Mash bananas using a fork

    Set the table

    Slice soft fruits or vegetables with a plastic knife

    Same as 3- and 4-year-olds plus:

    Measure ingredients

    Pour cool liquids

    Use an egg beater

    Snap green beans

    To learn more

    For more tips on family mealtimes, visit:

    Online Medical Reviewer: Brittany Poulson MDA RDN CD CDE
    Online Medical Reviewer: Heather M Trevino BSN RNC
    Date Last Reviewed: 9/1/2025
    © 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
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    Southern New Mexico
    Surgery Center
    2301 Indian Wells Rd. Suite B
    Alamogordo, NM 88310
    www.snmsc.org

    Phone: 575.437.0890
    Fax: 575.437.0905
    Email: info@snmsc.org

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