Improving interest in feeding
Picky eating is an issue all parents deal with at some point in their child’s life. While it is normal for kids to have favorites and preferences with food, variety in their diet is fundamental to staying strong and healthy. Kids should tolerate food with different textures, temperatures, and tastes. On various occasions, it may take many repetitions and interactions with food until they add them to their list of foods they will eat.
Introducing new foods
Better eating habits will start at family meal time. This is because children learn a lot of feeding behaviors by observing parents and siblings. In fact, siblings are one of the best motivators when it comes to trying new foods.
When to eat and how much
We recommend having 3 daily meals and 2-3 snacks per day. Grazing, or eating snacks all throughout the day, will unfortunately affect hunger cues and feeding intake.
Unscheduled snacks, juice, and milk will ruin their appetite and limit these hunger cues, which are instrumental in getting them to expand their food preferences. Water is a great alternative and should be encouraged between meal times instead.
Tips and Tricks
While it’s up to you when, where, and what you have to eat, your child will determine how much they will eat. Try ignoring negative behaviors and praise with specific words. For example, say “Good Biting!” or “Good Licking!” instead of “Good Job!”. Making the experience fun and positive will go a long way!