In the episode, the scene in question shows Bluey’s dad, Bandit getting ready in the bathroom when he is surprised by Bluey. He steps on the scale and says, “Oh man!” When Bluey asks what happened, Bandit responds that he soon needs to do some exercise. At that point, mom Chilli walks into the bathroom and says to dad, “Tell me about it,” when Bandit sighs by grabbing his tummy with a frustrated expression. Then Bluey asks her dad why he doesn’t start some exercise routines. Bandit answers that it’s for the “same old reason” – work and the kids. After a conversation about how Bandit won’t be able to do exercise because he needs to go to work timely, mom Chilli then steps on the scale and repeats the same reaction by groaning, “Oh man!”

The perception of both dad Bandit and mom Chili in this particular Bluey episode met stark criticisms, as expressing such unhappiness and disgust with one’s body weight is certainly not a model behavior for children to follow. Especially amidst a scenario where body image is already a worrying issue among children of all ages. Also, though it’s true for most families, it’s not prudent to tell kids to their faces that they’re the reason their parents don’t have time for doing important things. Thankfully, ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) took care of the matter pretty quickly by republishing a new version of the same Bluey episode, with the important topic of body image but without the questionable question.

Everyone wants to do their best to raise healthy and happy children. It’s important to pay frequent visits to your family physician to make sure you’re providing your little ones with the nutrition that they need to thrive. These are some of the top nutrients kids should be consuming regularly!

Good Nutrition Starts With Vitamin D

Vitamin D supports bone health, reduces inflammation, and improves immunity. Our bodies can produce vitamin D during exposure to the sun, but it’s also found in vitamin D-fortified milk, fortified cereals, salmon, and trout.

Mother’s milk doesn’t provide vitamin D, so kids from 0-6 months old and during infancy might require a supplement. Discuss this with the family pediatrician. Introducing vitamin D-rich foods into the nutrition of toddlers, young children, and teenagers becomes much easier.

Don’t Forget Omega 3

This is an essential fatty acid and one of the main nutrients required for fast brain development in the first two years of life. Past that point, Omega 3 remains very valuable for healthy eye function, the cardiovascular system, and the central nervous system. It’s found in chia seeds, flaxseeds, canola oil, sardines, salmon, walnuts, mackerel, and herring.

As mother’s milk and formula contain Omega 3 DHA, babies 0-6 months and infants usually receive a sufficient amount. Toddlers and young children need 0.7 to 0.9 grams of Omega 3 per day, and past the age of nine, the proper intake goes up to 1 or 1.6 grams a day.

Calcium for Growing Bones

Calcium is most famously known for building strong teeth and bones. It’s found in cow’s milk, cheese, yogurt, broccoli, almonds, spinach, kale, and fortified plant-based milk.

Mother’s milk and formula contain good amounts of calcium. After six months, think of introducing broccoli, tofu, or yogurt. Toddlers and young kids need 700-1000 milligrams of calcium per day. At the age of nine and older, the requirements increase to 1000-1300 milligrams.

Serve Zinc and Iron-Rich Foods

Zinc is important for proper wound healing and a good immune system. Iron helps the body produce energy and carries oxygen in red blood cells. It’s also needed for brain development and growth. Both these minerals are found in meat, fortified cereal, certain legumes, and other sources.

After six months, start introducing some iron and zinc-rich foods. Make sure that these minerals stay regular in your child’s nutrition up to and past the age of nine.

Provide Enough Potassium

Potassium is an electrolyte mineral that regulates the level of fluids in cells, helps muscles contract, aids nerve function, and helps maintain a regular heartbeat. It’s bountiful in bananas, potatoes, oranges, grapefruit, spinach, and other sources.

A well-balanced diet should provide all the nutrition a growing child needs, but an occasional checkup and conversation with the family pediatrician is a good idea!