Trying to figure out how to manage child nutrition can feel overwhelming at times. After all, you want to offer your child nutritionally sound options and also ensure that they have a healthy relationship with food as they grow.

According to a journal article in the National Library of Medicine, parents can strongly influence their child’s health through nutrition and this influence can carry on throughout the child’s lifetime. If you are unsure about where to start when it comes to managing your child’s nutrition schedule an appointment with The Paediatric Centre and Dr. Gwendolyn McDeigan in Nassau, New Providence, BS to learn about basic nutritional guidelines for your family's specific needs.

Tips To Help Manage Child Nutrition:

• Introduce new foods without pressure on the child to enjoy or finish every bite. The goal should be to teach your child a willingness to try new items without fear. Introduce each new food item repetitively as well. Do not give up when they do not love mango one way, just try it again and again over time. The key is consistency and no pressure.
• Lead by example. If your child sees you choose an apple or banana over chips or cookies then they will be more likely to do the same thing. Make sure they see you enjoying all those things you wish they would eat.  
• Do not force anything. Your child can develop fear and aversion to foods if you force them to finish a whole plate when they say they are full or force them to eat something they claim to dislike. Be sure to have a good attitude with food, so they will too.
• When it comes to making the right food choices for child nutrition choose items that are minimally processed and offer your child as many fresh vegetables, colorful fruits, and lean proteins as possible.
• Moderation is key. Do not fret over the cola and cake at a birthday party, just offer healthy options ninety percent of the time, and you will discover that raising a child who makes healthy choices is a lot more simple than you may expect.

Do not be over-stressed about managing your child’s nutrition. If you offer fresh ingredients and plenty of minimally processed options each day then you are likely on the right track. Discuss any specific dietary concerns with Dr. Gwendolyn McDeigan at The Paediatric Centre in Nassau, New Providence, BS.

Contact The Paediatric Centre to schedule your child’s next well-child visit or to specifically discuss child nutrition. Call today, at (242) 322-5025.