A nurse is providing teaching to the parents of a toddler who is exhibiting negativism during mealtimes. Which of the following statements by the nurse is appropriate?

A. Ask her if she is ready to eat her sandwich for lunch: This question is closed-ended and might prompt resistance, as toddlers often respond negatively to direct commands or yes/no questions that limit their sense of control. B. Ask her if she would like to have her favorite sandwich for lunch: Offering a choice with a positive option gives the toddler a sense of autonomy while guiding them toward a preferred food. This approach can reduce negativism by providing limited, acceptable choices. C. Tell her she is having her favorite sandwich for lunch: This directive removes the toddler’s ability to choose, which may increase resistance or oppositional behavior during mealtime. D. Tell her that she may have a sandwich or soup for lunch: While offering choices is good, this statement is more authoritative than inviting and may not engage the toddler’s cooperation as effectively as phrasing it as a question.