While you had perfectly orchestrated the start of the school year of your little one (competition breakfast, new schoolbag and flood of encouragement), he returned (very) grumpy. The reason? The menu of the canteen did not like … And he was hungry all day. If this voluntary fast is not serious in itself, how to rebalance her contributions in the evening? needle.
Ask the right questions to your child
Cenelles gratin with tomato sauce, white fish and steam spinach, cordon-blue too cooked … Whatever the menu offered by the school canteen, it is common for her child to make his own when going to the table. But if it is gladly forgiven him of the avoidance of the Maci Parmentier, what to do when this incident repeats itself in time? First advice: talk about it.
In a young child, betting on a game around the canteen is a good idea. “”We ask him: what’s going on? And this character, what does he say? We help him tell through the game “, advises Isabelle Filliozat, psychotherapist.
Then, in the event that he explains that the canteen dishes “are not good “it is necessary to dig. Is it the quality of the dishes that must be called into question? Or the conditions in which they are tasted (excessive noise in the room …)?
Once things are clear, you can try to improve your future lunches (discussion with school staff …), while rebalancing their contributions in the evening.
Post-Cartine meal: the ideal menu
First useful advice of Alexandra Retion: Do not zap the snack. “”If your child comes home just after school, the snack can help him until dinner “, she confirms.
“You can give it a source of protein like a yogurt, a piece of cheese, a few almonds or nuts – taking into account its age and its preferences”, reveals the expert. For fiber and vitamin intake, “A fresh fruit is also recommended or, failing that, a compote without added sugars. Finally, bread rich in fiber, like wholemeal or cereal bread, is a good idea “, says Alexandra Retion.
Another option: bet on a homemade cake made with eggs or blanc cheese, which adds a good dose of protein.
“The main one, here, being to avoid too sweet products, which raise blood sugar and make you want to snack”, recalls the expert.
Then, in the evening, dinner must be complete. “”You must offer your child a source of protein (poultry, fish, eggs or legumes) with a stupid stupid al dente, preferably rich in fiber (semi-complile or complete), without forgetting a vegetable intake. Finish this meal with a yogurt, a piece of cheese and a dessert fruit “, Advises Alexandra Retion.
An example of meals, easy to cook? An omelet with herbs, accompanied by a tomato and rice salad.
“Do not feel guilty if lunch has been light, but be sure to offer your child interesting food for snack and then dinner. In the evening, favor dishes not too fatty, so that they are easy to digest”, concludes the specialist.
Enough to combine pleasure and gluttony on the plate, without headache!