How can we make meals more peaceful?

Family meals should be a fun and enjoyable experience – in a perfect world. However, all too often, they become a battle of wills, with children not wanting to eat, or not wanting to eat what you’ve made.

This is especially true if you live with a picky eater. To avoid the endless arguments about who’s eating, and who’s not, try to avoid mentioning food at all. Just serve what you’ve made, and leave it at that. Don’t try to lecture your child about what he or she should be eating – you’ll only encourage arguments, rather than avoid them.

Don’t make desserts a reward for eating either – that only gives your child the message that pudding is a reward, and vegetables, and other foods, are a punishment to be endured. Rather serve at least one food that you know your child likes, and don’t discuss your child’s eating habits. Rather clear the table when you know your child has finished, and don’t remark on what’s left over.

On the topic of dessert, it’s fine to give your child some if he or she wants some – even if your child has not finished dinner. However, including healthy, fruit based desserts in your repertoire is a great way to make sure your child is eating at least some healthy food.