How to Get Your Little One to Sit Still During Mealtime
One of the main challenges parents face during mealtime is an energetic little one. It can be very tough to get your kids to sit still during a meal but here are some ways that you can make mealtime fun while also a form of downtime.
Make themed meals! Have your child pick a theme such as their favorite movie and build your meal around that theme. For example a Frozen themed soup night with a side of mashed potatoes and a carrot to look like Olaf. Adding a bit of pizazz to mealtime can peak your child’s interest and encourage them to enjoy time at the table.
Allow mealtime breaks! Taking breaks during dinner to stand up and get out the jitters can help your little one get out their energy but in a more organized way. Have them sit and eat for a few minutes and set a timer, than they can stand and stretch for a minute or two before returning to the table to eat.
Make sure there is a solid surface under their feet. Wiggling their feet and scooting down and up with lots of room can make them easily distracted by their chair and not focused on the meal.
Cut the distractions! Having an ipad or tv at the dinner table can be enticing because it keeps them seated and focused but more often than not they will not be focused on the food. This will also make it harder to wean them off of the distractions during mealtime. Focusing at one task at a time is proven to be healthier for growing minds.
Have some fun utensils, plates and mats! Customizing mealtime for your little one with plates, utensils and mats that have their favorite colors and characters can make mealtime a lot more fun and exciting for them!
Getting your child to sit still and have a meal can be quite the challenge but with these tips, some patience and a positive attitude, having a calm, sit still meal time can be very possible!
For more tips and tricks on pediatric nutrition send me an email to nutrikaywellness@gmail.com!