Chapter 2 and 3 Reflection

I really enjoyed reading these 2 chapters. I felt like most of it was a review from my PSYCH 101 class and my anatomy and physiology. I didn't mind too much because when I was taking those classes no one in my family had children or were expecting. Now, my sister is pregnant with her first and it made the information a little more applicable to my life. As I was ready I wanted to keep calling my sister to tell her "did you know this" or "did you know that". The entire time I was reading I was thinking of the chapters from my sister point of view but now I have time to reflect I can see how I can relate this information or my life in becoming an Aunt. I was able to find more of that information in the 3rd Chapter. 

I think my favorite part in chapter 3 was actually a pretty small section titled "You are what you eat": Nutrition and Growth. I used to want to be a nutritionist so I find it fascinating the varying amount of calories per pound a newborn, toddler, child, adult, and athlete needs to consume. It is astonishing to see the calorie per pound difference between a 3-month-old baby and an adult; 50 and 15-20 respectively. I also find it interesting how people become picky eaters or not. No one in my family is a picky eater, I literally can't think of a single think I don't like. It makes me wonder what it is that makes me different from someone else who is picky. 

            I really enjoyed the part in the book that lists a few recommendations from experts on toddlers and their eating. In short they say:

1.     Allow them to choose between healthy options

2.     Allow them to eat in any order

3.     Offer new foods gradually

4.     Do not force them to clean plates

5.     Spend meal times talking not about food issues

6.     Never use food as a reward

I have always thought these same things and it is nice to see them written in our book. I especially have been passionate about not make someone clean their plates. I feel like the idea of cleaning your plate has possibly led our country some of our dietary problems. It teaches children to over eat as apposed to eat until they are satisfied. You should encourage your children to eat what they want. I have baby sat for families that emphasized the 3 meals and no snacks. Research has come out that shows this is not the healthiest way to eat. Instead many small meals are better.

            I can’t wait to see my sister and let her know all the new things I have learned from this chapter :)