Proven Strategies for Helping Picky Eaters

Has your baby just started trying new foods? Is your little one a picky eater? We have you covered! It’s normal for your children to have this behavior, but there are ways you can encourage them to be more adventurous with food. In this article, we’ll look at a few proven strategies that can help.

Let Children Play With Food

Cleaning up a mess after dinner is not a fun experience, but letting your picky eater play with their food can actually help. Remember that babies are still getting to know the world and everything around them. That’s why you should let them touch, sniff, and play with the food before putting it in their mouth.

If your child is a bit older but still a picky eater, you can also involve them in the meal prep and cooking process and ask for their opinion on the menu for the week. Choose the products together and let them help you in the kitchen, too.

Be Patient With Picky Eaters

Dealing with your little picky eater can be exhausting and nerve-wracking. However, you should be patient and introduce new foods one by one.

If your child refuses to eat a particular type of food, that doesn’t mean you should give up forever. Serve the same food over and over until your child learns to accept it. If you react harshly, your kids will also respond negatively.

Variety and Honesty Are Important

If you want your child to develop the habit of accepting different foods, make sure to serve a variety of options each day. If you offer them carrots today, opt for broccoli or cauliflower tomorrow. After that, you can go back to carrots again. Your child needs to know that they have a choice.

It’s also crucial to be honest with your child about their food. Don’t be afraid to tell them there is spinach or peas in their smoothie. If they don’t react well, discuss this food together and show them what it looks like. This way, they’ll learn to trust you and likely want to try something new.

Start With Small Portions

Don’t stress your picky eaters out with huge portions from the start. The key is to begin with small pieces of food, such as a single pea, part of a noodle, or a small piece of cheese. It will be easier for your child to analyze the food and put it in their mouth. Once they try it, give them the food they like.

Then, go for a slightly larger portion of the new food. Another great tip is to introduce the food they love, along with something new. It will make the whole experience less stressful for them. Overall, remember that raising children is an ongoing process, and patience is key when it comes to tricky behaviors!