Peaceful Mealtimes

In many households, mealtimes cause more stress and anxiety than almost any other aspect of family life. Problems vary with the age of the children, but all too often the idea of relaxed, friendly meals with the whole family present and involved seems about as likely as teaching elephants to fly. Nevertheless, there are things that can be done to increase the likelihood of at least getting them flapping down the runway in pursuit of a lorry-load of bananas!

1)      Start to instill good habits when children are very young, and respond positively to any improvement

2)      It is important that you “lead by example”

3)      Don’t stress about mess

4)      Avoid showing anger and anxiety at mealtimes. You want children to look forward to them.

5)      Avoid distractions

6)      It is usually a waste of time trying to force children to eat something they don’t want

7)      Make the dining table the focus of their early evening routine

8)      If you are not eating with them, make sure that you at least sit with them and are sociable.

9)      Learn to cook well and show an interest in food

10)  Encourage children to help with the planning, preparation and serving of food

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