In office services in the NY Metro Area
Nutrition for Children
Children have different nutritional needs and emotional needs based on their
age, growth and preferences. Each plan for a child is customized for their
individual needs while preserving their self esteem.
Dieting for children is usually not a good idea, it is more beneficial for them to learn to make healthy choices and be active and grow into their weight as they get taller. Children do need to learn about nutrition, portion sizes and hunger and fullness. Frequently they have learned to ignore their hunger and fullness and just eat because they like the flavor of foods. They also frequently overeat because they are bored, or the pantry isn't stocked with the foods you really want them to eat for good health and development.
Children of all ages need to see healthy eating modeled by parents and siblings. They need to find food and mealtime as an enjoyable part of the day, not just because of the food, but because of the ability to gather as a family. In the current situation of so many families having long hours of work and children with many activities that make family dinners difficult, it may take some ingenuity and planning. Start with a meal or two per week. Once that seems under control, try getting creative and serving meals on the practice fields, for the family to be together, albeit not perfect, and not the Norman Rockwell version of family life, it can be a good time for families to share time in a new way.
Children with poor self esteems or with emotional problems like depression, difficulty with peers, school, etc. may need additional guidance beyond that of a dietitian to work with their issues and encourage them back onto a healthier track. They may also overeat or under eat because of these issues, especially when food is used for comfort, or rewards, or avoiding feelings by other family members. These children need supervision and support from the medical professionals, registered dietitian and a mental health practitioner to maximize their ability to feel well.
It is important as a child grows into adolescence that they learn to choose foods on their own, without a parent becoming the "food police" and putting them on a strict diet or depriving them of their favorite foods. This sets up an unhealthy relationship with that parent, and takes the choice away from the child, which will make them rebel at some point, just as a part of their individualization-which is a natural step in their development.
