Providers Voice Spring/Summer 2014 | Page 3

provider-to-provider Q&A forum to get advice from your provider friends. Ever wish you could gather “around the water cooler” with other child care providers and swap advice? That is exactly what this Provider-to-Provider section is all about. Each issue will feature a real provider question along with real provider answers. Using this interactive magazine makes it easy for you to send us your questions that will be used in future issues. Simply email our Managing Editor Christine Twait at [email protected]. The question for our next issue is listed at the bottom of this page. We also hope you write a response to Jean’s question in the REPLY BOX. Your submission will help Minneapolis provider Jean with her question. Question: “Help! How do I talk with a parent who wants me to be a short-order cook for her “picky” eater?” Your p rovide r friend s answ ered! Lisa from St. Paul A: Cindy S. from Thief River Falls. I say, “All the kids are given the same thing at meal times, unless there’s a diet order in place.” I also tell the parents that if all the kids eat together and the same things are given to all, they tend to try new things. A: Heather E. from Goodhue. I’ve told my parents, “If I do it for your child, I have to do it for every child.” Having a menu for the day helps. I also tell them that we will keep trying and that the child might surprise them! A : Heather H. from Thief River Falls. Let them know that you serve a wide variety of healthy foods based on Food Program guidelines. Your job is to encourage healthy eating habits by offering these foods. With consistency of healthy choices offered, your goal is for the child to become a healthy eater which will stay with them throughout adulthood. WRITE YOUR REPLY Can you help Jean? Share your advice on serving familystyle meals! Tell Jean what worked for you. You may also send us photos. Your suggestion and photos might be highlighted in the next issue. Next Question “What’s the best way to get started with family-style meals?” Jean from Minneapolis stant reply! Write an in PROVIDERS VOICE 3