Don't Battle Over Food

http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/food/
It's easy for food to become a source of conflict. Well-intentioned parents might find themselves bargaining or bribing kids so they eat the healthy food in front of them. A better strategy is to give kids some control, but to also limit the kind of foods available at home.
Kids should decide if they're hungry, what they will eat from the foods served, and when they're full. Parents control which foods are available to the child, both at mealtime and between meals. Here are some guidelines to follow:
* Establish a predictable schedule of meals and snacks. Kids like knowing what to expect.
* Don't force kids to clean their plates. Doing so teaches kids to override feelings of fullness.
* Don't bribe or reward kids with food. Avoid using dessert as the prize for eating the meal.
* Don't use food as a way of showing love.
When you want to show love, give them a hug, some of your time, or praise.