A recent study indicates that most mothers in addition to making their children eat healthy food are also concerned about their preference. It has taken into account the various factors like the emotions and rationale of the mother and the environment all of which influence decision making.

The primary factors are mainly two. One being health benefits i.e. concerns as to whether the child is getting enough nutrition, calcium etc and the other being affection towards the child. This varies across each meal.

Decision Making: Though the final decision is made by the mother it is not clear cut. A child’s likes or dislikes play a major role. Most mothers try to balance healthy food along with their child’s choice.

The top three things that are foremost on a mother’s mind are that the food should be nutritious and healthy, build character and good eating habits, and are sumptuous and filling.

However, the survey also revealed that child’s taste preference, his/her favorite food, and non-fussy food items were options that got equal percentages.

Meal Times: The balance however is different for each meal. For instance at breakfast which is the first meal of the day the focus is on filling up the stomach while at the same time not being very complicated as most mothers are hard pressed for time.

Lunch is what the kids eat fast as it is something they like a lot. Snacks are usually left to the child’s preference while dinner being a family meal is homemade or semi homemade.

Special Occasions: There are times when the rule is relaxed and kids eat not very healthy stuff like they have a bad day at school, celebrating a small victory or sometimes just as a treat. For these purposes, there are food items that come in small packs not high in calories. A fruit snack is the most popular treat.

Children’s Acceptance: Kids are more aware of the benefits of healthy eating and are very open to fruits and vegetables as compared to a few years back. Most children these days love eating fruits and vegetables as a snack.