It is thought that our food preferences are linked to the foods that we enjoy during childhood. Experts, therefore, believe that, during early childhood, children should be given a wide range of foods, especially fruit and vegetables, so that they develop a taste for them. 

Weaning 

During the weaning process, babies should be given a wide range of fruit and vegetables as this introduces them to different textures and tastes. 

Colour 

It has been shown that children eat more healthily if they are given a wide range of foods of different colours, especially fruit and vegetables. Choice and self-service Where children are able to choose foods (assuming that they are all healthy) and also serve themselves they are more likely to try out new foods. They are also more likely to learn to stop eating when they feel full.

Presentation 

Children are more likely to be interested in healthy food if it is attractively presented. In many early years settings, foods are put into attractive serving dishes or are arranged in ways that look interesting.

Involvement 

As soon as children are able to walk, they should be involved in the preparation of food or meal times. They can carry things to the table, serve themselves or take part in cooking. Being involved, especially in the cooking process, seems to make children keener to taste new foods or to try foods that they previously disliked. 

Repetition 

Some green vegetables are naturally bitter and so are less likely to be enjoyed by children. The sensation of bitterness can be reduced if children keep trying them. This is why foods should be regularly offered so that over time children can learn to enjoy them. 

Providing healthy snacks and drinks 

While young children do need snacks, as their stomach capacity is smaller than that of adults, the types of snacks on offer need to be healthy. They may include fruit, vegetables, or ‘mini meals’, such as cheese with biscuits. It is important, however, that when planning menus the calorie content of snacks is taken into consideration. 

Snacks should always be nutritious and this is why biscuits and cakes are not usually advised. 

• Popcorn
• Milk
• Yogurt
• Cheese and biscuits
• Slices of apple, pear or banana
• Breadsticks
• Water