Most children with healthy appetites
are ready to eat almost anything that is offered them and a child rarely
dislikes food{{U}} (31) {{/U}}it is badly cooked. The way a meal is
cooked and served is most important and an attractively served meal will often
improve a child's appetite. Never ask a child{{U}} (32) {{/U}}he likes
or dislikes a food and never discuss likes and dislikes in front of him or
allow{{U}} (33) {{/U}}else to do so. If the father says he hates fat
meat or the mother refuses vegetables, in the child's hearing he is{{U}}
(34) {{/U}}to copy this procedure. Take it{{U}} (35)
{{/U}}granted that he likes everything and he probably will. Nothing
healthful should be omitted from the meal because of a supposed dislike. At meal
times it is a good{{U}} (36) {{/U}}to give a child a small portion and
let him come back for a second helping rather than give him as{{U}} (37)
{{/U}}as he is likely to eat all at once. Do not talk too much to the
child{{U}} (38) {{/U}}meal times, but let him get on with his food; and
do not{{U}} (39) {{/U}}him to leave the table immediately after a meal
or he will soon learn to swallow his food so he can hurry back to his toys.
Under{{U}} (40) {{/U}}circumstances must a child be coaxed (哄骗) or
forced to eat.