Model Behavior

"Do Not Live by Emotions; Instead Live by Intuition and Consciousness"

Seems kinda of philosophical. But...this was the tag on my Yogi Tea this morning, and this is what really got me motivated to write this post today. (You never know where you'll find inspiration!)

According to a recent study published in Public Health Nursing, toddlers were less likely to consume fruits and vegetables if their moms weren't big produce eaters. "Kids form food preferences during the first four years of their life. And the biggest influence on their palates is what they see their mothers eating" says Mildred Horodynski, Ph.D., the study's lead author. She goes on to explain, "If you encounter resistance the first time you present a new food, don't give up. It can take up to 15 tries for a child to learn to like something."

Makes sense. As the saying goes, "Kids will see, Kids will do." No matter what excuse you have or what far-fetched story you come up with, kids will do what you do. They learn better from your example then your words.

Green Smoothie Time!

They will want to eat what you eat: That is why Nolan insists on eating off my plate even though he has the exact same thing. And why after I peel an apple for him, he wants to gnaw on mine. He wants what mommy has! This has kept us very "honest" when buying/making snacks at home. Nolan is now old enough to see what we eat and want it too. Instead of ice cream, we make yummy almond butter, banana and cocoa smoothies. I have numerous healthy (and quick!) cookie recipes that I can refer to for a sweet snack. (see any of my Recipe posts) Granola and Greek yogurt, fruit, even fresh juice in a fun cup turns into a "dessert"! As for eating out, a side of fruit or salad replaces fries and potato salad. This is where my Yogi Tea quote comes into play... Instead of indulging in the sweet potato fries (emotions), I use my intuition to teach Nolan about making healthier food choices. In turn, I also benefit from the healthier choice!

Mama&Baby Yoga

They will exercise if you do: My little Yogi gets so excited when we get to do Family Yoga! We also have access to tons of free Kids Yoga videos through our cable company. When I'm just practicing or playing around in the house, he stops whatever he is doing and joins in. He even knows most the asana names! Not only is he getting physical activity, but I am challenging his imagination, recollection and muscle memory.

They will mind their P's and Q's: We all get upset. There are days that I am mad, annoyed or in a hurry. But, how I react in front of Nolan teaches him manners and respect for others. I try to be very conscience of saying "Please" and "Thank you", speaking in a pleasant tone, and explaining things to him, like why we are waiting in line for food or to use the bathroom. In turn, he does imitate alot of what I do, and I am very proud of how polite he is.

As a mother, I MUST be very conscience about my decisions. I am teaching Nolan through my actions, responses, and decisions - and what he learns will be with him forever. I can remember the things my mother did and said when I was a child. I can remember how I felt. I want to instill in Nolan (even at this young age) the things I know to be true: Your body is a temple - treat it as one; to love yourself; eat the food that God provided; get outside in the fresh air and sunshine; run; live your life to the fullest; breathe.