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For the child :
Show interest in what your mommy is doing in the kitchen. But do NOT touch sharp and hot stuff! Seriously.

For the parent:
Involve kids in meal preparations. Let them wash the vegetables, watch you chop the onions and garlic from a safe distance. Or, for some sensorial experience, let them be more ‘hands-on’ and help you mix the minced pork and make meatballs, for example!

For the child :
Before you start your meals, do remember to say grace and thank you to the person who prepares the meal. It’s always nice to show simple gestures of appreciation to others.

For the parent :
Help your child say his prayer of thanks to God. Let him know too that HE is the One who’s given parents to him; parents who are blessed to have been able to provide food on the table too. It’s always nice to learn to count our blessings since young.

For the child :
Now start your meals. It’s always good to use the spoon or fork provided. But an occasional use of (thoroughly washed) hands should be okay.

For the parents :
It’s always better if a toddler is given a chance to learn and self-feed, even it means using his hands to bring food into his mouth. It’s part of learning. Really.

Also, you may want to consider spreading sheets of newspaper UNDERNEATH the chair. It’ll really help in cleaning up that mealtime mess later.

For the child :
Remember to chew, chew, chew, and finish up your meals. Parents love it if you eat well and ‘fast’! It’s even better if you can do it with a smile! Hehe.

For the parent :
Help the child and spoon-feed him once in a while, if needed. Do notice if he eats more enthusiastically this time round (he should, actually), knowing that he actually is INVOLVED in the making of his own meal!

…

My mealtimes were rather horrid at times, especially during those early days. But it does get better. Gradually. Well, at least MY mommy hopes so.