Portion-size tips

It’s easy to slip intro the trap of giving kids more than they need. So we’ve put together some handy hints to help you get to grips with working out how much is right for your kids, as well as helping them understand why you’re doing it.

The tummy trap

Kids’ tummies are smaller than adults', so they need less food to make them full. Try not to fall into the trap of serving up the same-size plateful for everyone in the family.

Me-size bowls

Plates and bowls are bigger these days - a child-size portion may not look like enough. So try getting child-sized ones for the kids; it’ll make it easier to tell if they’re getting the right amount.

Table tricks

Get the kids to eat at the table rather than in front of the TV as this can distract them, which means they may miss the signal from their tummy that says I’m full and end up eating too much.

Puzzling packaging

Be careful with pre-packaged food - the portions usually come in adult sizes so don’t give a whole one to a child. Let them share a bag of crisps, or save some for later.

Snack time

Set a regular healthy snack time for mid-morning and afternoon when the kids are home. It helps train their bodies to think regular food is coming, making them less likely to overeat at meal times.

Get the kids involved

Let the kids watch you serve the meals. This way they’re more likely to understand the different portion sizes for different ages.

Start small

Give them less to start with - they can always ask for seconds. You’ll have less waste and they won’t eat too much.

Just a mouthful

If you’re worried about picky eaters not getting a balanced diet, encourage them to try a mouthful of everything on the plate, rather than all of it. You might find they try more things that way.

Clear plate conundrums

Don’t worry if they don’t clear their plate. If they say they’re full, the chances are, they are full!

Water regularly

If the kids say they’re hungry while you’re cooking, try giving them a glass of water or juice to fill the gap rather than a snack that could ruin their appetite.