Evening snack…
Many children love this meal. And if you ask me, I think it's brilliant too.
Many children are hungry after dinner (whether they have eaten a lot, a little or nothing). Often, this is because our children don't feel as "monitored" as they sometimes do during dinner.
And then their appetite sparks the second they get up from the table. Because the pressure is gone.
But maybe you find it hard to fit an evening snack into the rest of the evening's chores?
Or maybe you're just a little annoyed by it?
Here are 4 good tips for an "evening snack" that might help a little.
1) It's also just a meal that sits comfortably in the stomach before bedtime. Sometimes it's eaten in front of the TV. Other times while a bedtime story is being read. Or while drawing. Etc. All associated with something safe and cozy.
It's also a good meal for mom/dad. Because it allows you to relax a bit if you're stressed because your child hasn't eaten their dinner.
2) Set boundaries for it: Children love fixed routines. And it can also be nice for us adults. Does your child ask for an evening snack even before dinner is over? Or when you say "it's bedtime". Agree on a specific time for the evening snack 🕖
3) Make it easy: This is not a 3-course meal. Let your child choose between two things, for example, a portion of oatmeal or a piece of fruit. Or maybe leftovers from dinner.
4) If you're tired of evening snacks, remember that: Eating is a dynamic process. Just because your child loves evening snacks now, doesn't mean it will continue. Suddenly, you'll find that your child changes their eating habits. Maybe they eat more breakfast. Maybe more dinner, etc. And then the need for an evening snack diminishes.
The evening snack is a way for our children to self-regulate. Therefore, it's natural for it to "come and go" a bit. And one day, the need will no longer be there.
Warmly, Charlotte
