Workshop to Focus on Solving Childhood Eating Problems
Child eating habits can be puzzling to some.
But nutritionist Pam Estes is able to make sense of the phenomenon. “Children are erratic about eating,” she said. “They eat a lot one day, hardly anything another. What they enjoy one day, they ignore another.”
Estes, of Indiana, will share her expert knowledge on the subject as the featured speaker during the upcoming ‘Child of Mine’ two-day workshop at the St. Peter’s Hospital Education Center June 9-10, 2008. The event will provide effective methods of teaching children good eating habits.
On Monday, June 9 from 6 to 8 p.m. Estes will present a public lecture on ‘Solving Childhood Eating Problems.’
Then, on Tuesday, June 10 from 8:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. Estes will lead an all day workshop devoted to ‘Helping Children Eat and Grow Well in Childcare.’
Both events are free and open to the public and are being sponsored by the state Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), Montana Dietetic Association and Head Start. Pre-registration is encouraged.
The workshop will focus on child development as it relates to feeding from birth to age five. Early childhood professionals as well as parents and family members are encouraged to attend.
“Studies show that almost half of children have feeding problems, some of them so pronounced that they affect growth,” said DPHHS Early Childhood Services Bureau program specialist Deby McNally. “Pam Estes provides practical and effective advice to parents about raising children to eat well.”
Estes said she often hears from parents that their child doesn't eat enough, especially of meat, vegetables and fruits, or that their child eats the same few foods over and over. Those who worry that their child drinks too much milk are matched by an equal number who worry that their child drinks too little, she adds.
Parents can bend the rules, but should not give in to their child’s refusal to try new foods. Parents should discourage grazing. “Children who graze for food don't get the chance to learn,” she said.
But, as Estes points out there is a hard and fast rule that seems to work best. “If parents hold steady with feeding, children eat well in the long run,” she said. “Parents get into trouble when they try to outguess what their child will eat, try to entice him into eating or give up on meals and just let him graze. Such tactics make children eat worse, not better.”
To schedule an interview with Estes while she is in Helena call McNally at 406-444-2789.
For more information contact the Child and Adult Care Food Program of DPHHS at 406-444-4341 or toll-free at 1-888-307-9333 or visit www.childcare.mt.gov.
Page last updated: 06/02/2008
