9 Things You Shouldn’t Say to Your Kids at the Dinner Table

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Family mealtime, though often chaotic, is a valuable opportunity for connection and conversation about daily events and plans. Studies suggest that eating together can improve health and promote better eating habits. To maximize these benefits, it’s important to be mindful of the messages conveyed about food, as the language used at the table can significantly influence children’s relationship with eating.

1. “You can have dessert if you eat your vegetables”: Foods, including dessert, should not be used as rewards or punishments, as this can create a negative association with certain foods. Instead, all family members should have the option to enjoy dessert regardless of their dinner choices. If a child prefers dessert over dinner, it’s best to treat dessert as an occasional treat. Additionally, serving dessert with dinner can be effective for some children, promoting a healthier relationship with food.

2. “You’re so picky”: Labeling children, such as calling them “picky eaters” or “slow eaters,” can be detrimental as it may lead them to internalize these identities and limit their self-view. Researchers suggest that such labels can confine children, causing them to believe they dislike many foods and fear trying new things. This can result in behaviors that reinforce the labels, ultimately doing more harm than good.

3. “Eat five more bites of chicken and three more bites of peas”: Parents often encourage their children to eat more healthy foods with good intentions. However, dictating how much children should eat can lead them to feel they must continue eating even when full, potentially resulting in health issues later on. It’s important to allow children to listen to their own hunger cues.

4. “You wouldn’t like it”: Always encourage your child to try new foods, even if you believe they might not like them. While it’s okay to inform them about strong flavors like garlic or spice, maintaining an open and positive attitude fosters their adventurousness. This approach not only helps them become more willing to explore different foods but also builds their confidence to step out of their comfort zone in other areas of life.

5. “You have to try it”: The “one-bite rule” can be effective for some children by encouraging them to try new foods, but for others, it may lead to mealtime conflicts and negative associations with food. While it’s important to introduce nutritious options, fostering a sense of autonomy is crucial. Children should be allowed to decide what and how much to eat without being forced to try foods they don’t want, enabling them to make healthy choices and learn about nourishing their bodies.

6. “Great job cleaning your plate”: Praising your child for finishing their meal can send the message that a clean plate is the goal, which may lead them to ignore their hunger and fullness cues to gain your approval. This can be harmful, especially for children who seek validation. Instead, avoid commenting on their eating habits and trust that they will eat according to their body’s needs.

7. “Eat more quinoa; it’s healthy”: Labeling foods as “good” or “healthy” creates a value judgment that can lead children to associate their behavior with food choices. This may result in feelings of guilt when they eat less “healthy” options and encourage food deprivation. Additionally, research suggests that viewing a food as healthy can lead to overeating, as children may not pay attention to portion sizes and indulge more.

8. “Pizza is so fattening”: Nutrition experts advise against labeling foods negatively, such as calling them bad, fattening, or unhealthy, as this can lead to feelings of guilt or shame in children. Negative labeling may cause them to hide their eating habits or binge on these foods in secret, potentially leading to disordered eating. Instead, all foods can be incorporated into a balanced eating plan without stigma.

9. “Stop wasting food”: Criticizing children for wasting food can pressure them to finish their plates, leading to overeating and confusion about hunger and fullness cues. This can foster guilt and shame, negatively impacting their relationship with food. To address portion concerns, empower children to serve themselves appropriate amounts using tools like measuring cups or smaller spoons. Remind them that they can always return for seconds if they’re still hungry.

Read More:https://childreninfobank.com/safebank/9-things-you-shouldnt-say-to-your-kids-at-the-dinner-table/

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