Researchers in Australia analyzed longitudinal questionnaire data completed by mothers of 2-4 year olds. After controlling for age, gender, maternal age, education and BMI, parental pressure to eat predicted decreased interest in new foods up to 12 months later. However, parental modeling of healthy eating predicted more interest in new foods and less picky eating. These eating practices did not predict body weight 12 months later, though.
PositiveTip: If you model healthy eating to your children, it will lead to better eating behaviors, even in preschoolers!