How to deal with picky eaters

How to deal with picky eaters

If you have a child who is a picky eater, you might be frustrated by their refusal to try new foods or eat a balanced diet. You might worry about their health and nutrition, or feel like you are wasting time and money on preparing meals that they won't touch. But don't despair, there are some strategies that can help you cope with this common challenge and encourage your child to enjoy a variety of foods.

Why are some children picky eaters?

There are many possible reasons why some children are picky eaters. Some of them are:

- They have a natural preference for certain tastes and textures, and may be more sensitive to bitter or sour flavors.

- They are going through a developmental stage where they want to assert their independence and control over their choices.

- They are influenced by their peers, media, or family members who have different food preferences or habits.

- They have a medical condition, such as food allergies, intolerances, or sensory issues, that make eating certain foods uncomfortable or unpleasant.

- They have a negative association with food, such as being forced to eat something they don't like, or having a bad experience with food poisoning or choking.

How can you help your picky eater?

The good news is that most children outgrow their pickiness as they get older and become more exposed to different foods and cultures. However, in the meantime, here are some tips that can help you deal with your picky eater:

- Respect your child's appetite and don't force them to eat more than they want or need. Offer them small portions of food and let them decide how much to eat.

- Offer your child a variety of healthy foods from different food groups, and include some foods that they like and are familiar with. Avoid making separate meals for your child, but allow them to choose from what is available.

- Introduce new foods gradually and repeatedly. It may take up to 15 tries before your child accepts a new food. Don't give up and keep offering it in different ways, such as raw, cooked, chopped, pureed, etc.

- Make mealtime fun and relaxed. Avoid nagging, bribing, or punishing your child for not eating. Instead, focus on the positive aspects of eating, such as the taste, color, texture, and smell of food. Praise your child for trying new foods or eating well.

- Involve your child in planning, shopping, and preparing meals. Let them choose some ingredients, help with simple tasks, or suggest recipes. This can make them more interested and curious about food and give them a sense of ownership and pride.

- Be a good role model for your child. Eat a variety of healthy foods yourself and show enthusiasm and appreciation for food. Avoid criticizing or commenting on your own or others' food choices or body weight.

Remember that dealing with picky eaters is not easy, but it is not impossible either. With patience, persistence, and creativity, you can help your child develop healthy eating habits and enjoy food.

Summary: This blog article provides some reasons why some children are picky eaters and some tips on how to cope with this challenge and encourage them to eat a variety of foods.

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