The eating environment
There are many benefits attached to the eating environment and sharing meals together. When they
can, parents/carers should provide an environment for eating well in a non-distracting environment.
Distinct mealtimes throughout the day and ensuring children have regular meals including breakfast
will help young children to develop healthy eating habits and lifelong skills for young children.
Young children should never be alone while eating, they should be encouraged to sit down, and chew
food properly. Some food may need additional preparation particularly for very young children like
chopping and slicing some fruits, removing stones and avoiding nuts
Top Tips
• Focus on making ‘everyday’ food available.
• Lead by example and model the enjoyment of ‘everyday’ food.
• Eat meals as a family when you can.
• Encourage an active lifestyle by enjoying activities together with your child.
• Encourage your child to eat when they are hungry and stop when they are full.
• Comfort children with attention, listening and hugs instead of food.
• Create a non distracting environment, separate eating from other activities
• Enjoy balanced meals and a varied diet
Portion Size
Portion sizes vary from age to age, so it is best to be guided by the child’s appetite. Encourage a child to eat when they are hungry and stop when they are full. This will support all children, including those with a high BMI, to listen to their bodies and manage their weight over time.
