Preschoolers quickly grow and change physically, mentally, and socially, and they require healthy foods to meet their developmental needs. Here are some of the top nutrition tips from our Calgary Montessori school to keep your child healthy and growing during this period of social distancing.
In today’s busy world, many kids’ diets involve a lot of convenience and takeout food, but these can be extremely unhealthy and have a negative effect on your child’s health. Mindful and healthy eating for your child is important and has many benefits for your little one because it can:
- Stabilize their energy
- Improve their minds
- Boost their moods and immunity
- Help them maintain a healthy weight
- Help prevent certain mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression
At Grey Matter Montessori School, We Help Support Every Aspect of Your Child’s Development
At Grey Matter Montessori Preschool, we understand the importance of healthy eating, especially during this time of COVID-19. We encourage all of our parents and students to stay active, eat well, and find ways to create positive experiences during this difficult situation.
Need some advice on how to support your child’s development at home?
CONTACT OUR NW CALGARY MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL
4 Best Nutrition Tips For Children During COVID-19: A Guide From Our Calgary Montessori Preschool
Following a healthy diet and focusing on nutrition is one of the simplest and best ways to take care of your family’s health and prevent the onset of disease. In addition to this, healthy eating habits are more likely to stick with your child if they learn them early.
Here are some of the best nutrition tips for your child’s development from our Calgary Montessori preschool:
1. Never Skip Breakfast
Eating a balanced breakfast with protein is a great way for your child to begin their day. Mornings can often be very hectic, so why not try some of these on-the-go healthy choices:
- Egg sandwich on whole wheat bread
- Hard boiled eggs and toast
- Greek yogurt
- Peanut butter on whole wheat toast
Remember: Not only will protein help them stay fuller for longer, but it will also help them maintain a healthy weight.
2. Get Your Kids Involved
One of the best ways to encourage your child to eat healthy is by getting them involved. Why not have them help you shop for groceries and choose foods to eat? They can even help you fix meals and take some ownership in what they’re eating.
Plant a Garden Together
During this time of social distancing, you are likely looking for activities to keep your child busy, so why not plant a garden together? Growing some of your favourite herbs, fruits, and vegetables can be a fulfilling experience for your whole family.
7 TIPS TO KEEP YOUR KID ACTIVE DURING COVID-19
3. Limit Sugar Intake
Sugar occurs naturally in many foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and dairy products, but there are others which may contain added sugar and all this does is add empty calories to your family’s diet. At worst, it can contribute to hyperactivity, mood disorders, and type 2 diabetes.
Here are some easy tips to help reduce the amount of sugar in your child’s diet:
- Modify recipes. If a recipe calls for sugar, try to reduce that amount by half and see how it turns out.
- Avoid sugary drinks. Cutting out sodas and juices from the diet is an easy way to reduce your child’s sugar intake.
- Eat more fruit. If your child has a sugar craving, try giving them a smoothie instead of a soda.
- Don’t ban sweets. Don’t ban anything from your child’s diet, because that will cause them to overindulge once they get their hands on something sweet. Just make these kinds of food a special treat instead of a regular part of the diet.
4. Make Mealtimes a Priority
Sitting down at the table as a family is an important part of establishing healthy eating habits. But it’s about more than just eating together. Mealtimes are also a chance to:
- Talk with your children
- Monitor their eating habits
- Set a good example for your kids
Be a Good Role Model
Remember, if you prepare and eat healthy foods yourself, your child will eat healthier too. Try to avoid obsessive calorie counting and don’t talk negatively about yourself, because this could lead to your child developing the same attitude and negative associations with food.
We Are Here to Help Support Your Child’s Development Through These Difficult Times
At Grey Matter Montessori Preschool, we know this is not an easy time for Calgary families, but remember that staying at home and sticking to social distancing recommendations is the best way to protect your family and community.
If you need any advice on how to bolster your child’s development during this time, contact us at 587-707-4739 or fill out our online contact form.
