How to Teach 4-Year-Old Kids About Nutrition

Teaching young children healthy eating habits can influence their nutritional decisions into adulthood. Children who understand the importance of eating a balanced diet are more likely to try nutritious foods instead of demanding unhealthy options. Take advantage of the curious nature in your 4-year-old by giving him a solid foundation of nutritional concepts.

Instructions

• 1

  Explain the different food groups. Show examples of food from each category and provide information about the usefulness of each group. Introducing 4-year-old kids to the food guide pyramid can give them an additional reference. Draw a large triangle on a piece of paper and divide it into the appropriate food sections. Help kids fill in the sections, drawings corresponding foods. Add new foods to the sections as your 4-year-old learns about or tastes them.

• 2

  Educate them about portion control. Let 4-year-old kids know that eating isn't a hobby but rather a way to refuel your body. Avoid overloading his plate, as this can make a young child upset if he doesn't get to finish everything. Teach young kids to listen to their bodies before asking for additional servings. Allowing 4-year-old kids to help separate family size bags of food into smaller packaged portions can be a valuable learning experience.

• 3

  Take young kids shopping to a variety of food markets. Exposing them to different venues can make shopping trips more exciting and helps them to understand that nutritious food can be purchased in a variety of places. Use the grocery store for lessons in meal planning and point out less healthy food options. Find a produce market to show 4-year-old kids a wide range of fruits and vegetables. Visiting a farm can give young kids a greater appreciation for nutritious foods.

• 4

  Let them help prepare some meals. Inviting your 4-year-old into the kitchen for cooking lessons can make him feel more involved in the process. Encourage him to think of new ways to incorporate healthy foods into his diet. For instance, adding bananas to pancakes can provide a nutritional boost. Use kid-friendly cookbooks during the lessons to show him that kids and their choices are valued.

• 5

  Set a positive example with your eating habits. Young kids pay attention and are more likely to base their actions on the examples given to them. Eating a variety of healthy foods throughout the day reinforces responsible eating. Limit your unhealthy snacking and watch your own portion sizes. Demonstrate the importance of getting the proper amount of water and exercise.