REAL SITUATION:
My child 6.5 yr old always wants something sweet ( sweets, ice-cream,cookies, cakes). Even I’m explaining that too much sugar is harmful he is still demanding and begging while I’m giving.
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Thank you for question.
LISTEN to child’s wants.
You don't have to fulfil them, just hear them. You don't need to immediately explain why NOT.
You don't need to explain how much he already had.
The child may want. You can listen to him - see the child.
You can say, example: "Mmm, yes, it could be very delicious to eat ice cream every morning/ every day. What flavor would you like now?" “ I see you so much want it.”
And it’s ok to want.
When a child feels that he is directly seen, it already satisfies part of his desire and need.
Sometimes we adults so much craving for something too😊 But it’s our wants/ desires not needs.
Remember, you are parents and providers, and regulating how much sweets can be bought and taken home, and given to child, and how often.
If sweets 🍭 🍰🍬🍫 🍦🍧🍨are at home it’s no logic it can’t be eaten. And ofc child seeing and knowing it. All food at home should be available to consume.
And food must be good and healthy that children can eat.
So to avoid these demands either you taking a decision and not bringing sweets to your home and not consuming it yourself, either bringing some occasionally and sharing with everyone.
How often it’s your decision and boundary.
Example: my kids having special “sweets” days after school on Fridays. I also giving them to choose from 2 options only and these options must be the most healthiest.
Sometimes my daughter (11 years old) craving for sugar and when we are at the shop she is asking to buy something sweet. I always saying yes, choose only 1 from 2 options but search for the healthiest one and it should be without additives. Believe me, there is no much options to choose in the shops. And she is going and reading labels, checking ingredients, getting tired and giving up on searching. Then she just choosing berries 😄🤷🏼♀️
Remember, kids learning from us, from our words, behaviour and who we are😊
Craving for sugar can have many reasons.
Scientists saying that during periods of growth children more attracted to foods what having calories. Previously children were satisfied with fruits: dates, apples, honey🍎🍯 🍐Now children living in environment where sweets are everywhere and easy accessible. Especially at homes😬