Parent Mealtime Practices and Rules for Feeding Young Children

Introduction

Obesity prevalence is disproportionately high among Black and Hispanic children. Feeding practices have been shown to be associated with the development of excess weight. We explored differences by race/ethnicity in parent behaviors related to portions and family dining rules.

Methods

February 2024 survey of a nationally representative sample of 1,083 parents of a child 3-10 years old. Census-based sampling weights were applied to generate bivariate comparisons between Black, Hispanic, and White parents.

Results

Black and Hispanic parents were more likely than White parents to use predetermined portions from packaging (8% vs. 8% vs. 1%, respectively) and less likely to give slightly less than the adults in the family (62% vs 67% vs 72%); similar proportions say they allow the child to choose the amount to take (27% vs 20% vs 24%). Black parents were more likely than Hispanic and White parents to report their child must finish everything on their plate (25% vs. 12% and 11%, p<0.01) and cannot have dessert unless they finish everything else (39% vs 28% vs 30%, p=.297), and less likely to disallow sweetened beverages during dinner (24% vs 29% vs 36%, p=.016). About one-quarter of parents (23%) will “often” make something different for their child if they don't like what the rest of the family is having, with no differences by race/ethnicity.

Conclusion

Findings suggest that Black parents are more likely to have practices that may encourage consumption of excess calories. Pediatricians should provide guidance and resources to help families adopt healthy dietary practices.