SNACKTIME: Recommendations for parents to help their picky eaters eat healthy food

It is not uncommon for a parent to experience a child who is a picky eater.  This phenomenon occurs in both boys and girls regardless of ethnicity and economic background.

For example, a child might insist on eating only one particular food item at each meal or display fear when introduced to new foods. They can even completely refuse to eat the food on his/her plate.

There are a number of strategies parents can use to help their children overcome their picky eating habits.  Here are some helpful recommendations:

1. Keep Trying--Repeatedly offering a food item during mealtimes will increase the chance that the child will finally eat it. Studies show that it may take 8-15 attempts before a child will finally taste the food.
 

2. Involve Children in Meal Preparation and Cooking--Becoming familiar with a food item can help overcome a child’s hesitancy to try it. Studies show that when children engage in meal planning and preparation, they are less likely to be picky eaters. Children involved in grocery shopping, gardening and meal preparation will significantly increase the likelihood that they will eat the food prepared for them. 

Children can help select foods when shopping for groceries or even help create the menu. Young children can retrieve items from the pantry, garden or refrigerator. They can also help measure and stir various ingredients. Older children can help read and follow recipes.
 

3. Role Model Healthy Eating Habits--Children learn by watching and listening.  Parents can set a good example by eating a variety of healthy foods.
 

4. Be Patient Especially with New Foods--Remember, a child might taste a certain food item ten or even twenty times before eating it.
 

5. Make Meals More Fun—There is a variety of visual tools you can use to make nutritious meals pleasant and even exciting for children. Try using bright colors, unique shapes and special plates. Be sure to discuss the benefits of good eating right from the start. For example, children love finger foods and anything prepared in miniature sized arrangements. 

Try bite-size chunks of fruit, cheese or berries.  A colorful bowl, special plate or fancy fork can make a child feel special during meal time. You can also use seasonal cookie cutters to transform ordinary sandwich bread into special shapes for snacks or lunches.

Begin the year with strategies to help picky eaters eat right!

Submitted by

Leslie K. Kay-Getzinger, MS, RD

Regional Dietitian for Nutrition Management Services CompanyImage from Newsolio

CHALK TALK The Benefits of Studying History

As a junior high student, I was fortunate to have a theatrical history teacher who made every lesson a journey back in time. From the Roman Empire to World War II, he told vivid stories of presidents, generals, inventors, and explorers along with a host of not-so-famous people simply trying to make a living. 

From the teacher’s captivating insights “behind the text of the history book,” I learned both the triumphant and tragic sides of humanity. My teacher’s lessons offered more than a window to the past. It helped me understand the world beyond my life of family, friends, and immediate community. 

History shows how social, political, and economic actions of the past influence current news from around the world, far beyond our comfort zone. Studying history gives profound examples of how decisions by individuals hundreds of years ago still affect millions of people decades later. Records of both good and bad decisions give students in all grades models to shape their decision-making and worldview.  

History also provides students role models of character, wisdom, bravery, and good leadership. Reading about significant figures such as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who represents courage and integrity in the face of daunting challenges, illustrates a positive role model for students to look up to in their lives.

Scholars point out that the study of history fosters analytical thinking by causing students to dig deep into historical content to identify specific information for building a sound argument or making an accurate comparison between the past and present. This strengthens abilities to examine, organize, and explain factual information. These skills are essential in other academic subjects, as well as career pursuits.

Contributed by Doug Fleischli

Image courtesy of What Answered 

How To: The Importance of Good Manners

Good manners are important for children to learn, especially in their formative years of interacting socially. Whether it is in a classroom, playground or larger social engagements, good manners will help your child gain respect and make a positive impression. Here are some helpful tips to assist children in understanding and practicing proper etiquette. 

Practice basic courtesy – 

Say “please” and “thank you,” even to those you briefly encounter. People notice when you are courteous and respectful toward them. It sets a good impression and builds a foundation for strong character.

  

Hold doors open for other people – 

It is courteous to hold the door open for someone, even if they are a stranger. If you do not know the person, you can say “after you.” If you do know the person, you can address him/her by name. If you are unsure about whether or not a person would appreciate having the door held open, ask politely “Can I get the door for you?” This gives the individual an opportunity to accept or decline.

Speak politely – 

Be aware of the volume of your voice when speaking in a public setting. Keep in mind that speaking with a lower voice tone is encouraged especially in classrooms and other places where people are in deep thought. When engaging in conversations, it is wise to be a good listener and speak when it is your turn, rather than interrupting a person in mid-thought. 

Dining etiquette, chew politely – 

Do not chew with your mouth open. It is easy to forget this rule when having lunch with friends, but it is important to maintain in all social settings. Others around you might be distracted if you chew with your mouth open, and they may not be able to focus on finishing their food or conversation. 

Share food politely – 

Ask someone to pass you a dish or a seasoning. Never reach across a dish or someone else’s plate for something; instead, politely ask the person sitting next to you to “please pass” the desired item. It can be inconsiderate if you reach out for something across the table. For example, your hand might knock over a glass or graze the food on someone’s plate. 

Excuse yourself when leaving – 

Always try to say “excuse me” whenever you need to leave a table. It is appropriate for a child to ask an elder for permission to leave. This is important because leaving a table without excusing yourself might be abrupt, leaving others to wonder what happened. 

Contributed by: Natasha 

Photo credit: Hart Total Fitness

FRIDAY FOLDER january 9

Highlights of the week: 

Junior High Spelling Bee

The Anaheim Hills Campus kicked off the year with a Junior High Spelling Bee.

Congratulations to all who participated.  Participants spelled words such as edification, gambol, phonetics, stalwart, gainsay and wraith it was a spirited competition!

1st Place - Ali A

2nd Place - Kayla T

3rd Place - Ryan Z

Our top 3 finalists will represent us in the Orange County Spelling Bee, which is the next step toward the National Spelling Bee. 

Finalists:

Pranav K

Dylan P

Aidan A

Sarah H

Ishaan V

Sunny Y

Mariano C

Patrick G

Ishan P

Karina P

Arjun M

Andrew Y

For exciting news and updates from the campuses, check the weekly newsletters below:

Weekly Newsletters:

Anaheim Hills Campus 

Historic Anaheim Campus 

North Tustin Campus 

December Lunch Menus:

Anaheim Hills (2nd - 8th Grade)

Anaheim Hills (P - 1st Grade)

Historic Anaheim Preschool

Historic Anaheim Campus 

North Tustin Campus 

Contributed by Neha, Fairmont Private Schools

FRIDAY FOLDER december 19

Despite the rain, the CHOC Toy Drive succeeded in collecting a truck load of toys for the young patients of Children's Hospital of Orange County. The hospital staff will give the toys to the kids who spend weeks or months inside the hospital.  The toys are used as therapeutic play to help patients adjust to their hospitalization and create a positive experience. It’s a very rewarding experience for the Fairmont family to bring smiles to the young patients who frequent CHOC due to catastrophic illnesses. 

A big thanks to the 25 members of the Orange Coast Harley Davidson Owners Group (HOG). Their help every year brings smiles to both to the givers and receivers of this special event.

Weekly Newsletters:

Anaheim Hills Campus 

Historic Anaheim Campus 

North Tustin Campus 

SNACKTIME: Fun, healthy holiday recipes

Cooking with your children during the holiday season offers opportunities to have fun in the kitchen and build lifelong memories. As an alternative to making only sweet, not so healthy holiday treats, consider preparing healthier versions from scratch with your children using simple substitutions or additions. This will significantly improve the nutritional content without compromising flavor or fun!

Substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose white flour--Use ¾ to one cup of whole wheat flour to replace one cup of all-purpose flour. Since whole wheat flour is slightly denser, you may need to add a bit more liquid to the recipe.

Nutritional Benefit: Whole wheat flour provides more fiber, vitamin E, B vitamins and trace minerals such as magnesium, iron, zinc and copper than all-purpose, white flour.

Substitute flaxseed for butter or oil in baked goods--Flaxseed provides a fat substitute in most recipes. Three tablespoons of ground or milled flaxseed can replace one tablespoon of margarine, butter or cooking oil. Grind flaxseed in a coffee grinder or purchase packaged ground flax seed/flax seed meal. Flax has a slightly nutty flavor. Add to baked goods for a nutritional boost.

Nutritional Benefit: Flaxseed contains lignans, a type of fiber and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is an omega-3 fatty acid. Both help prevent inflammation that affects the body’s immune system and may also lower risk for certain types of cancer.

Additional ingredients for baked goods--Add chopped pecans, walnuts, almonds and hazelnuts

Nutritional Benefit: Nuts are rich in healthy, monounsaturated fats. They help stabilize blood-sugar levels and improve cholesterol and triglycerides, which may reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease. Nuts are high in fiber, magnesium, potassium and vitamin B6, which increase protection against cardiovascular disease.
 

Spices such as cinnamon, cloves and all-spice--For generations, traditional herbs and spices have been used as food, flavor enhancers, as well as to treat ailments. There is scientific evidence supporting how these herbs and spices provide medicinal properties that alleviate symptoms or prevent disease.

Nutritional Benefit: Many spices such as cinnamon, cloves and ginger not only add flavor, they are high in antioxidants and other health promoting properties.

Enjoy holiday goodies more by modifying recipes just a bit to create healthier alternatives without sacrificing taste!

Submitted by Leslie Kay-Getzinger, MS RDN
Regional Dietitian for Nutrition Management Services Company
Image credit: Culinary.net 

FRIDAY FOLDER december 12

Highlights of the week: 

The mighty trumpets!

Sydney G. sings sweetly on Hallelujah.

Sydney G. sings sweetly on Hallelujah.

Franco and Yiyi strum away on their cellos

WIlliam S., Aidan D., and Michael B. play the saxophone!

Winter Concert Debuts New Fairmont Jazz Band

 

This last Wednesday, everyone attending the Winter Instrumental Concert enjoyed glorious music. First to play were the 6th grade string players. These students, along with the brass, percussion, and woodwinds students, only began playing their instruments in September. The string class played five songs, including one that featured the chamber string group. The string class was followed by the 6th grade brass, percussion, and woodwinds class. Each section was featured on one of their songs with the finale, "Holiday Sampler," incorporating all the sections. 

Next to take the stage was the "Fairmont Beat," our newest musical addition, which is a jazz/pop band. Fairmont Beat is comprised of nine students in 5th through 8th grade who meet at 7 A.M. each morning to practice. They performed a wonderful array of songs, featuring vocalists on all but one song. Crowd favorites were "Little Talks" featuring Trent B. and Alice F. on vocals and "Summertime" featuring Heather Anne G., Chandler T., and Trent B. on improvised instrumental solos.  

After the jazz band, it was time for six solo acts to show of their musical talents.  Jian P., Dahlia C., Jayne S., and Lianne C. dazzled on the piano. Aaron K. was featured on the violin, and Dale T. and Joel K. performed at flute and violin duet. 

The final act was the Fairmont Orchestra, which showcased 44 students and their musical talents. They began their set with "Festival of Carols" then quickly transitioned to a group of three traditional carols, "Joy to the World," "Silent Night," and "O Come All Ye Faithful." The next song was "Hannukkah Joys" which was then followed by a medley of songs from the movie "Polar Express." Next, Maddie C. sang a wonderful version of the Beatles' classic, "Hey Jude." The last song of the set was "Trepak" from "Nutcracker Suite."  After a brief bow, the orchestra treated the audience to an encore song, "The William Tell Overture." 

Overall it was a wonderful night of music led by Mr. Drake Peterson, Miss Regan Lambert, and Mrs. Marilyn Taylor. The night demonstrated the amazing talents of our students! 

For exciting news and updates from the campuses, check the weekly newsletters below:

Weekly Newsletters:

Anaheim Hills Campus 

Historic Anaheim Campus 

North Tustin Campus 

December Lunch Menus:

Anaheim Hills (2nd - 8th Grade)

Anaheim Hills (P - 1st Grade)

Historic Anaheim Preschool

Historic Anaheim Campus 

North Tustin Campus 

Contributed by Neha, Fairmont Private Schools