Rosalee Brown
MANY ADULT lifestyle habits were learnt in early childhood. Many of these habits are performed unconsciously.
Children learn from their daily routine, so whatever we want them to practise, should become their reality. If we see structure as desirable, then we have to start practising it. So, for example, as much as possible, structure meal patterns into breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks (if you consider snacks appropriate). These habits should be practised by parents and caregivers so that they become your children's reality. Also watch out for the portion sizes consumed. If you are a family that consumes large portions then that will be your children's reality.
COOKING METHODS
What about your cooking methods? Are you known for sumptuous dishes with generous amounts of flavour enhancers, such as fats and salts? If that is how it is always done in your family, then this will be your children's reality. If you use the same tried-and-tested food daily and you are not one for variety, then your children will never learn of other foods and will see them as optional. What of your dining habits? Are you always eating on the run, before the television and have no time for sitting at the table, conversation and practising the social graces? Then that will be your children's reality.
If you are aware that some of your current habits need overhauling, then you should start with the adults in the family and the children will usually follow.
SOME TIPS
Make small changes but stick with them. Set specific times for meals, eat at the table and, as much as possible, have conversation instead of just watching television. Teach table manners through practice.
Add variety to meals by adding a new food from any food group weekly.
Reduce fats, oils, sugars and other additives that you are using in excess. Use other methods of cooking such as stir frying, roasting or baking where possible.
Aim to change the lifestyle of the family, one step at a time, by improving yours and the children will follow.
Very importantly, make activity fun and an avenue for the family to laugh and share with each other.
Teach sharing and volunteering, as in addition to helping others, the person offering the service is also improved.
Remember, to improve your children, you must start with improving yourself, as they become their daily routine and do not necessarily practise what they are told.
Create a new and improved generation; invest in your future by improving your present.
Rosalee M. Brown is a registered dietitian/nutritonist who operates Integrated Nutrition and Health Services; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.
