Picky or fussy eating is something most parents face at some point. It’s usually just a phase, but it can be worrying for parents.
Follow these tips to help your child develop better eating habits:
Encourage your child to touch, smell and taste food
Lead by example and eat with them
Praise your child when they eat well
Stay calm and positive
Give smaller portions at first. If they finish, offer them more
Don’t force feed – your child may develop a negative association with a food
Don’t bribe or pressure
Don’t give children drinks or snacks close to mealtimes
Turn off the television or any other distractions
Keep offering. It can take as many as 10 times for a child to try a food and like it
Remember, not all foods are liked by children. To make sure they are not missing out on important food groups, here are some alternatives you can give your child:
If your child refuses vegetables:
Offer vegetable sticks as snacks
Blend them up in soups and meals
Mash with potatoes – carrots and parsnips work well
Many children prefer fruit, so give an extra piece of fruit instead
If your child refuses to drink milk:
Add cheese to mashed potato or pasta dishes
Add milk to mashed potato and sauces
Offer yoghurt or cheese as a snack
Try milk-based desserts like custard or rice pudding
If your child refuses meat:
Offer eggs – boiled, poached or scrambled!
Use baked beans or try peas and lentils
Serve meat with a sauce or gravy
Try casseroles using pulses like lentils and chickpeas instead of meat
