You can help your child to build healthy habits now that will last a lifetime. Use these tips to make every bite count with young children.

Model healthy behaviors

Preschoolers tend to copy what parents or caregivers do at the table. If you eat your veggies, they'll eat their veggies. And, it's good for both of you.

Think about their drinks

Offer water or low-fat or fat-free dairy milk as beverages. Freeze small pieces of fruit in ice cube trays filled with water to add color and flavor.

Prevent choking

Encourage children to sit at a table for meals and snacks and not wander around carrying food. Search online for foods that are choking hazards at different ages.

Try new foods

Involve your kids in online and in-store grocery shopping and let them pick a new fruit or vegetable. This can help improve their interest in trying new things.

Get kids involved

Preschoolers can help at mealtimes by washing produce, tearing lettuce, stirring mixes, scooping ingredients, or setting the table.

Offer choices

Like adults, preschoolers like to have a say in what they eat. "A pear or an apple?" "Whole wheat toast or some crackers?" You offer the healthy options, but they get to choose.