Did you know…
that you should brush your
child’s teeth twice a day, at least an hour after she’s last eaten,
which allows time for her teeth to be remineralized by saliva? It’s good to encourage her to brush her own teeth, so she gets used to
the routine, but you must help, to ensure that they are properly
brushed. Keep sweet food and drinks to a minimum, and try to offer them
only at mealtimes, when there is plenty of protective saliva swirling
around her mouth.
Food for comfort
Feeding a distressed or
upset infant is a natural reaction, as it instantly soothes and calms.
It can, however, develop into a habit for both parent and child. Little
ones associate food with “feeling better,” and we offer it because it
works. The problem is that, even as early as toddlerhood, children
connect comfort with food, which can lead to “comfort eating.” Get into
the habit of distracting your child with games or activities, and offer
plenty of physical affection to soothe him.
Super C Smoothie
Vitamins A and C are good for boosting the immune system, and so is zinc. This smoothie contains a combination of fruits that provide these vitamins. I like to use watermelon, but you could substitute cantaloupe if it is in season and very ripe. For a thicker smoothie, freeze the strawberries overnight.
5 minutes
NOTE
2 child portions, depending on age and appetite
4oz strawberries (3 large or 5 medium), hulled and quartered
1 wedge of watermelon or cantaloupe, seeds and rind removed and flesh cubed
1/2 small banana
3 tbsp strawberry yogurt
2 tbsp orange juice
1 tsp honey
Put everything in a
blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a glass and serve. If there is
some smoothie left over, it can be kept in the refrigerator to drink
later—stir it again briefly.
