Food and Children (02:28)

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Childhood feeding expert Dr. Katja Rowell introduces six topics that address food-related issues facing many families with young children.

Making Family Meals Happen (04:56)

For successful family meals, limit distractions, and serve foods family-style. Each meal should contain a least one grain, two fruits or vegetables, one protein, and bread. Parents decide what, when, and where children eat, but how much or if a child eats.

Helping Your Picky Eater (03:30)

Picky eating affects nutrition, behavior, and is often a source of family conflict. Do not pressure, reward, or bribe children to eat. Parents decide what, when, and where children eat; children decide if and how much to eat.

Family Meals When Eating Out (03:41)

Eating together, no matter where, defines the family meal. Avoid eating in the car. Choose family-friendly restaurants. Avoid the "kid's menu," and let them share an entree instead. Aim for foods from at least 2 food groups and limit to 1 fried food.

Is Your Child Too Big? (04:47)

BMI, or body mass index, is often misunderstood. Labeling children makes matters worse. Steady growth is healthy. Do not focus on weight, focus on behaviors. Model healthy behaviors. Do not put a child on a diet. Limit television time.

What if Your Child Is too Small? (04:18)

Children naturally eat erratically and may be picky. Review growth charts from the child's birth with a knowledgeable health care provider. Plan balanced meals and snacks. Offer fat, protein, and carbohydrates at all meals.

Planning Snacks (04:23)

Balanced and satisfying snacks help children maintain balanced blood sugar levels, more energy, and better behavior and attention. Serve snacks and meals every 2-3 hours for toddlers and preschoolers, and every 3-4 hours for older children.

Credits: "Kid and Family Food Issues" (00:33)

Credits: "Kid and Family Food Issues"