Teaching kids the importance of portion control and serving size is essential for fostering healthy eating habits from a young age. Start by using fun visuals, such as plates divided into sections, to illustrate how much of each food group they should be consuming. For instance, explain that half of their plate should be filled with fruits and vegetables, while the rest can be shared between proteins and whole grains.
Involve them in meal preparation to give them a hands-on understanding of serving sizes. Use measuring cups and scales to show how different quantities look, making it a game to guess the right amount. You could also introduce the idea of “listening to their tummies”—encouraging them to recognise when they're full and to serve themselves appropriate portions.
Encourage regular family meals where everyone can discuss what a healthy plate looks like and share ideas about food. By making learning about portion control interactive and fun, children will be more likely to understand its importance and carry these healthy habits into adulthood.