Why is it good for a child to get dirty while eating?

Many parents take special care so that their children do not get dirty when eating, however, getting dirty can be beneficial for the cognitive development of the little ones. This is because it leads to the formation of an independent individual, capable of assuming his basic needs by appropriately expanding his motor skills.

We must remember that nutrition is a fundamental aspect in the growth and optimization of health; taking into account the food, the portions and the healthy activity of feeding is essential for the correct development of the child.

But, what do these things mean? That healthy eating habits should be instilled in them for good living.

When selecting the type of food for the diet, a good supply of nutrients and vitamins should be considered. For this purpose, the following should be included in correct quantities: meats, legumes, carbohydrates and fruits. It is essential for the child to follow an adequate diet based on their nutritional needs.

It is of great importance to establish the diet considering the ideal weight of the child. A specialist can determine the amount and type of food, making a respective study based on the percentiles to know the nutritional status of the child according to his weight.

Another aspect to consider at the time of feeding the baby, are the appropriate times for each meal, as it is necessary to establish a specific schedule to be followed in strict order.

Benefits that are obtained when the child soils himself while eating

When a child feeds himself, he not only develops independence, but also feels the textures of the food and speeds up his mobility and perception. Among the most relevant benefits of allowing your child to get dirty while eating, we find the following:

● Self-sustaining learning:

Babies by nature seek to take everything they can into their mouths, and when it comes to food, they experience different tastes and textures. In a child who is starting complementary feeding, it is important to ensure adequate foods in texture and quantity, to gradually adapt the little one to the fact that on their own they can sustain themselves.

● Perception:

According to studies, children who soil themselves while eating, can learn more quickly to name and differentiate foods. This aspect is important for brain development and sensory enrichment in babies.

● Prevents tactile sensitivity:

When children do not experience various textures in the first years of life, they may take on intolerant attitudes toward certain situations or sensations. If parents never allowed him/her to get dirty before, the child will become extremely overwhelmed at the feel of a stain, no matter how small.

● Agility of gross and fine motor activities:

Sitting upright at the table comprises gross motor, and bringing food to their mouth comprises fine motor. This allows them to refine with walking movements and quicken their interest towards food. 

Other valuable benefits of this activity are language development, improved appetite and food identification.