Hi everyone! As a mom of two little girls, I know how tricky it can be when your kids don't want to eat what you make. It's like one day they love something, and the next day they won't touch it. It can be so frustrating! But don't worry, it's usually just a normal part of growing up.
I'm also a pediatrician, and I want to share some tips to help you. We're going to talk about how to make food more fun. We're going to find ways for your kids to enjoy eating.
Is it Just Picky Eating? Or Something More?
First, let's make sure we know the difference between regular picky eating and something more serious. It's normal for little kids to be picky. They're learning what they like, and they want to make their own choices!
Sometimes, kids will only eat the same foods for a while, and then suddenly not like them anymore. This is called a “food jag”, and it is very common. But if your child isn't growing well, has trouble swallowing, or throws up a lot, it's important to talk to your doctor.
Problem feeding is when kids:
- Eat less than 20 different foods.
- Get really upset or even throw up when they see new foods.
- Aren't getting the right vitamins and minerals because they don't eat enough different foods.
If you're worried, talk to your doctor or a feeding therapist. They can help!
Sensitive Tummies and Taste Buds
Sometimes, kids are picky because of how things feel, smell, or taste. Think about it – some foods have strong smells or weird textures. My youngest daughter sometimes refuses to eat certain things for this very reason!
It can be too much for some kids. Imagine if everything tasted super strong, it is not very nice, right?
Here are some signs your child might be extra sensitive:
- They only like certain textures or tastes.
- They don't want to eat whole groups of foods, like all vegetables.
- They get upset when they see foods they don't like.
If this sounds like your child, a special doctor called an occupational therapist can help.
Make Food Fun!
Little kids like to play and explore. If we make food fun, they might be more likely to try it! Making food fun makes a huge difference
Here are some ideas:
- Use cookie cutters to make fun shapes out of sandwiches or fruit.
- Make funny faces on the plate with different colored vegetables.
- Give foods silly names. Broccoli can be “little trees”!
- Have a picnic on the floor or use a muffin tin for different snacks.
Trying New Foods: Little by Little
Don't try to give your child too many new things at once. It's better to go slow.
Here's what you can do:
- Make sure the food is right for their age.
- Give them just a tiny bite of something new, along with foods they already like.
- Put a new vegetable next to a dip they enjoy.
- Don't give up! It can take a long time for kids to like new foods. Sometimes they have to try it 15 or 20 times, or even more!
Happy Mealtimes!
It's easier for kids to eat when everyone is calm and happy. Here are some ways to make mealtime nice:
- Eat together as a family. Kids learn by watching you!
- Turn off the TV and put away toys. This helps them focus on eating.
- Don't make them eat everything. It can make them not want to eat at all.
- Talk and have fun together. Mealtime is a good time to be together.
- Dads should eat with the family too, and show kids how to eat healthy.
- Tell kids why healthy foods are good. You can say things like, “Carrots help you see better!”
Kids in the Kitchen!
Let your kids help make the food! They might want to try something if they helped make it.
They can do easy things like:
- Wash vegetables.
- Stir things.
- Help set the table.
It's also a fun way to teach them about different foods.
Your Questions Answered!
Here are some questions that moms often ask:
Q: “My child only eats a few foods. Is this normal?”
A: Yes, it's normal for little kids, especially between 2 and 4 years old, to like only certain foods. Just keep offering healthy choices, and don't make special meals just for them.
Q: “My child snacks all day and doesn't eat dinner. What should I do?”
A: Give them healthy snacks, but not too close to dinner time. Make sure they play and run around, so they get hungry.
Q: “My child won't eat any vegetables! Help!”
A: Keep trying! Offer vegetables in different ways. You can even hide them in other foods, like putting pureed squash in muffins.
Q: “My child drinks a lot of juice and milk. Should I worry?”
A: Yes, too much juice and milk can fill them up, so they don't eat enough healthy food. Give them water between meals.
Stories from Other Moms
It can help to hear from other moms who have been through this. Here are a few stories:
- One mom said her son was picky at home, but ate lots of different foods at school. This shows that it's good to be calm about food.
- Another mom put her son's food in glass dishes so he could see it. She also let him help cook and told him he was doing a great job when he tried new things.
- A food expert said her daughter used to spit out some of her food. She stayed patient, and her daughter started to like more foods.
You Can Do It!
I know it's hard when your child is a picky eater. But you're not alone! If you stay calm and keep trying, you can help your little one learn to eat healthy.
Here's what to remember:
- Picky eating is often normal. Don't feel bad!
- Make mealtimes happy and relaxed.
- Offer new foods slowly and many times.
- Make food look fun!
- Let your child help in the kitchen.
Trust yourself, and have fun with your kids!
How do you handle picky eating in your family? I would love to read about your experiences in the comments below.