**New Article: Lessons Learned as a Dietitian-Mom After 20 Years of Feeding Kids**

As a dietitian-mom who founded Real Mom Nutrition when my firstborn was just 5 years old, I have accumulated a wealth of knowledge and experience about feeding kids over the past 20 years. Reflecting on this milestone, I have come to appreciate the valuable lessons I have learned along the way, some of which were learned the hard way.

### **1. The One-Bite Rule May Not Always Work**

While the one-bite rule may work wonders with some children, it may not be successful with others. What works for one child may not work for another. Each child has unique preferences and habits when it comes to food, and it’s essential to adapt feeding strategies to suit their individual needs.

### **2. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff**

I have realized that stressing over every morsel that my kids consume is not productive. It’s crucial to adopt a more balanced and relaxed mindset around food. Allowing for flexibility and balance in their diet can lead to a healthier relationship with food for both children and parents.

### **3. Serve Salads Early and Often**

Introducing salads and vegetables early in my kids’ lives has proven to be a beneficial decision. By making leafy greens a regular part of their meals, my children have developed a positive attitude towards vegetables and mixed dishes. Starting healthy eating habits from a young age can set the foundation for a lifetime of nutritious choices.

### **4. Making Just One Meal Sets You Free**

Preparing just one meal for the entire family and allowing children to have some degree of choice in their meal components can reduce mealtime stress. By providing a variety of options and respecting their preferences, children are more likely to explore new foods and develop healthier eating habits.

### **5. People’s Food Choices Are Their Own Business**

I have learned that food choices are personal and should not be judged or shamed. It’s essential to respect others’ food preferences and focus on promoting healthy habits in a positive manner rather than through criticism or judgment.

### **FAQs**

**Q: How can I encourage my child to try new foods?**
A: Encouraging children to try new foods can be a gradual process. Start by introducing small portions of new foods alongside familiar favorites and offer positive reinforcement for trying new things.

**Q: How can I make family meals more enjoyable?**
A: Engage children in meal preparation, introduce fun conversation topics, and create a relaxed and positive atmosphere at the dinner table to make family meals more enjoyable.

### **Conclusion**

Over two decades of feeding kids, I have learned valuable lessons about nutrition, feeding strategies, and fostering a positive relationship with food. By adapting to my children’s individual needs, being flexible in my approach, and focusing on creating a nurturing mealtime environment, I have been able to navigate the challenges of feeding children with more ease and confidence. Remember, the most important aspect of family meals is the connection and joy shared at the table.

As parents, we have the opportunity to instill healthy eating habits and positive attitudes towards food in our children, setting them up for a lifetime of balanced nutrition and well-being. By reflecting on these lessons learned, we can continue to evolve and improve our approach to feeding our kids with love, patience, and understanding.