15: Q&A - How to make mealtime less stressful with little ones? With Jeanne-Marie Paynel

Do you stress when it comes to mealtime with your little ones? Listen to get some helpful strategies. 

Mealtime can bring up a sense of dread and stress for some, but it doesn’t have to. In this episode, I share simple strategies and shifts that will help you create a peaceful and positive ritual around nourishing your bodies together as a family. 

What I talked about: What is your relationship with food? Children are very aware of what their body needs. The child’s nutritional plate is per week, not per day, nor each meal.  The foundation: feeding from infancy and the loving connection you build with your child.  When you notice their interest in what you’re eating, provide options for them to put in their mouths. Involving children in cooking and allowing them to try what you are eating.  Using utensils from an early age.  Invite them to the dining room table with the proper chair.  Put everything on the table before sitting down together to minimize getting up. Phones/screens are not invited to the table. Offer a variety of healthy options and let them choose. Set boundaries around mealtime and snacks. Take them to the market and the farm to involve them in the ritual of food.  Children are very capable and eager to help you in the kitchen. Be open to inviting them. Things to Remember:

“Children are more in tune with what their body needs than we typically give them credit for.” -Jeanne-Marie Paynel

“The process is what is important, not the end result.” -Jeanne-Marie Paynel

“You don’t have to repeat what was done to you. It’s up to you to reinvent it.” -Jeanne-Marie Paynel

Click here for show notes and more from Jeanne-Marie, Your parenting Mentor.