Children learn by example. Like the saying, “Monkey see, monkey do,” young children tend to copy the role models in their lives. For this reason, the behavior a parent models impacts the child far more than the rules parents verbalize. Stick to the meal schedule yourself; if your child catches you sneaking a snack in the pantry, she is likely to sneak around behind your back, as well. While you don’t have to pretend to like all foods, you can downplay your dislikes by drawing attention to a wide range of likes. Also, it is important to model good eating habits when it comes to junk food. If sweets and greasy, salty snacks are only selectively available and rarely a part of your diet, your child is far less likely to refuse to eat dinner in favor of a treat.
Consistency
Possibly the most important rule in child rearing is to be consistent. A rule that is enforced only occasionally will not warrant the same respect from a child as a rule that is kept without exception. Whether selecting a meal and snack schedule, setting standards for healthy eating habits, or making rules regarding food choices, you must be consistent in your expectations in order to see consistent results in your child.