Handling Picky Eaters

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Article - Handling Picky Eaters

Did you know it takes a child 10 times of trying a food before they can truly acknowledge a like or dislike for a food? Children’s taste change over time, therefore it is imperative that you continuously reintroduce foods to children. If you have a “picky eater”, try some of the tips below and whatever you do be consistent. Also, keep in mind that a food that you dislike might not be a food that your child will dislike. Keep an open mind about offering a variety of foods to your child.

How to Handle Picky Eaters:

Don’t cater to finicky eaters by cooking “special” meals just for them.
Make sure your child does not go hungry, (even if he/she snubs the main dish), by including something you know he/she likes in a meal (bread, fruit, etc.).
Including something in the meal that the picky eater likes will help tide him/her over to the next meal or snack. If the child comes back after a meal because he/she is hungry but it is not time for the next snack, offer the meal again.
Don’t allow the picky eater to ruin the meal for everyone else. Make it clear that complaining is not allowed.
Involve the picky eater in choosing the meal, shopping and cooking the meal.
Look for new ways to cook foods – children will often eat vegetables but they tend to like crunchy foods. Offer raw vegetables with a dip instead of overcooked soggy vegetables.
Offer the Delicious Minimum: Let the picky eater know that they are expected to at least try an item. Put a small amount (1 Tbsp) on the plate and let the child know they are expected to try that amount. It often takes children up to 10 times of trying an item before they find that they like the item.
If you know your child truly does not like certain foods, don’t make them eat those foods. Everyone has certain items that they truly dislike.