Like many parents, the challenge of feeding my children can be overwhelming at times. My eldest, Max, is an incredibly selective eater, while my youngest, Lucy, has an endless craving for sweets and rarely stays seated at the table for longer than a few minutes. Mealtime can sometimes devolve into chaos, but I know this is a common experience for many families.
The hours after school leading up to bedtime can be especially hectic, particularly when it comes to feeding them. Both kids typically don’t consume much during lunch at school—something I’ve learned is quite typical from chatting with other parents. So, when they return home, they are not just a bit hungry; they are absolutely famished—so much so that they might throw themselves on the floor crying if they don’t get food immediately. Trust me, I can relate; I remember feeling ravenous after school too.
For years, I relied on after-school snacks like mini-pizza bagels, pita chips with hummus, and granola bars. While these options were quick and relatively healthy, they led to continuous snacking from 3 to 4 PM. As a result, dinner often turned into a farce, with one eating session blending into another. It was frustrating and confusing for everyone involved.
Then, one day, it hit me: Why not just serve dinner around 3 or 4 PM when they are clearly at their hungriest? This way, I could offer a nutritious meal (or as nutritious as my picky eaters would allow) and save snacks for later.
After implementing this plan for a few months, I can confidently say it’s been a game-changer. Sure, preparing a meal at that hour can be a bit challenging, and there are times when I need to offer appetizers if they’re really hungry. However, what I whip up is nothing extravagant—think pasta, chicken nuggets, grilled cheese, and some fruits or veggies.
They actually enjoy this early dinner! It’s much healthier than the snacks I used to give them, which often spoiled their appetite for the evening meal. They usually finish eating before tackling their homework, meaning they’re well-fed and content during that time, and throughout the evening.
You might wonder if they get hungry later on before bed. They do have snacks later if needed—preferably healthy ones. This new schedule has also reduced the mindless snacking that used to occur both before and after dinner, which I consider a win.
As for me, I often join them for this early meal. Like many parents, I wake up early, so I end up having breakfast, lunch, and dinner at earlier times. I typically sit down for my own meal around 4:30 or 5 PM and enjoy a small snack after they go to bed.
So yes, my kids eat dinner at 3 or 4 PM. While it may seem unusual to some, when I discussed it with a few friends, they mentioned they do the same or expressed interest in trying it. After all, kids usually go to bed around 8 PM, so why should they wait until 6 or 7 to eat? Early meals seem to align better with their natural rhythms. Even on weekends, they prefer this schedule, which helps alleviate the dreaded 4 PM witching hour.
Feeding my kids dinner early has been fantastic, and I can’t believe it took me so long to figure it out. For those who think I’m being unconventional, I ask: Why does it matter what time it is? Do kids really care about the socially accepted dinner hour? (Spoiler alert: they don’t.) My approach is simple: feed your kids well when they’re hungry. Customize your mealtime to fit your family’s needs. Everything else is just noise. Bon appétit!
If you’re interested in exploring more about home insemination, check out this article about at-home insemination kits. For a reliable resource on this topic, consider visiting Genetics and IVF Institute. If you’re looking for specific tools, the Cryobaby home intracervical insemination syringe kit combo can be a great option.
In summary, adjusting meal times to fit your children’s hunger cues can lead to happier mealtimes and less stress in the kitchen. It’s all about finding what works for your family!
Leave a Reply