Final answer:
The directed focus statement by the nurse to determine a child's feeding preferences is asking whether the child would prefer hot dogs or chicken nuggets. This direct question is tailored to elicit specific information about the child's food choices, reflecting their autonomy and importance in their development.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement made by the nurse that is an example of a directed focus when assessing a child's feeding preferences during meal time is: "Would Sam prefer hot dogs or chicken nuggets, if given a choice?" This statement directly addresses the child's specific food choices and prompts the parents to provide more focused information about the toddler's feeding preferences, which is essential for making informed health or dietary decisions. Directed questions help to uncover a child's autonomy in their food preferences, which, according to developmental theories, is significant for their sense of independence and can influence their cognitive development and self-esteem.