J. Stauffer

Hi Ren,

I would worry more about a control issue with Zach if he ever balked at
eating what he takes. He doesn't. He just takes low nutritional foods.

I didn't post precisely. Our "eat what you take" policy has more to do with
accommodating the fact that there are 7 people in the house. It is more of
"Are you sure you really want that? Would you like to just take half?" That
kind of a thing in a pleasant tone when we are pretty sure that one of the
kids isn't going to eat something and somebody else would have liked to have
had some.

We used to have lots of foster kids and these kids often came from nothing
and to be able to have the LAST of anything was a big prize. At times, it
was used to hurt others. My little guys were even littler during those
times and picked up on some of that. Also, we are 7 people on a single
income. I can't always run to the store to get more yogurts because someone
got the last one, took 2 bites and threw it away. Then here is the 4yo
crying because she wanted yogurt. It is just so inconsiderate and when you
have a bunch of little guys, consideration is important.

But no, we don't do the "You took cauliflower. I know you've never eaten
cauliflower before and wanted to try it. I don't care if it is making you
gag. By the gods, you will eat it!!!"

Not us.

However, someone posted about taking Zach snacks throughout the day. This
morning I made carrot muffins with raisins and nuts. As Zach was waking up,
I went upstairs and told him that I made muffins for him (they were also for
everybody else and he knew that). He came downstairs, ate one and then made
a big glass of ovaltine with fresh goat milk. Go figure. I will continue
along this pleasant vein and see where it goes.

Julie S.