Web site helps the finicky preschooler

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WASHINGTON, Nov. 25 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion provides individualized nutrition guidance for preschoolers.

The Web site MyPyramid for Preschoolers at MyPyramid.gov is designed specifically for parents and caregivers to provide individualized nutrition guidance to meet the needs of preschoolers 2 to 5 years of age.

"This a great tool for all parents of preschoolers but particularly those of finicky eaters," Brian Wansink, director of the USDA Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion, said in a statement. "It's loaded with great ideas and suggestions for families so they can help their kids eat a more varied and nutritious diet."

The Web site recommends to:

-- Set reasonable limits for the start and end of a meal. When you see that your child is no longer interested in the meal, excuse him or her from the table.

-- Encourage your child to try new foods, but don't force a child to eat.

-- Talk about fun and happy things. Try to make meal time a stress-free time.

-- Encourage a preschooler to help prepare meals and snacks.