The taste buds of kids change as they grow older. So it’s natural for the toddler who ate anything that was put in front of him to become pickier as he matures.
In a child’s social life, meals are quite important. They help children learn about food while connecting them with their family and friends.
One of the most common complaints among parents is picky eating. It’s the rare child who eats everything, gamely taking on new vegetables.
“I believe every parent has said at some point, ‘My child is such a picky eater!’ It’s very typical for children to go through phases of being more choosy, especially when they’re attempting to show their independence. “All of a sudden, I want to put on my coat, brush my teeth, and choose my food.”
The taste buds of kids change as they grow older. So it’s natural for the toddler who ate anything that was put in front of him to become pickier as he matures.
Just like you, your child will have days when he wants to eat certain foods and days when he doesn’t. They might not even want to eat at all. Don’t stress too much about what your child eats on any given day; instead, make sure they eat a variety of healthy meals over some time.
How much food should my child eat?
Every child needs a well-balanced diet that contains foods from all three food groups: fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and protein.
Your role as a parent or caregiver is to make healthy meal and snack choices for your child. It’s then up to your child to pick what they’ll eat, how much they’ll eat, and (in certain cases) whether they’ll eat at all. Children can develop healthy eating habits for life by listening to their bodies-eating when they are hungry and stopping when they are full.
Every child needs a well-balanced diet that contains foods from all three food groups: fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and protein.
What if my child is a picky eater?
- Children enjoy deciding what to cook for dinner. Talk to your child about making choices and planning a balanced meal. Involve them on grocery trips.
- Secondly, involve your child in meal preparation by having him or her wash veggies, stir, and so on. Kids may be open to trying new foods if they help prepare them.
- Also, during mealtimes, avoid distractions such as cell phones, toys, books, TV, or other screens.
- At each meal, offer at least one food that you know your child enjoys.
- Drinks should be served only after the main entrée. Your child’s appetite may be affected if he or she consumes too much milk or juice.
- Lastly, food should not be used as a reward.
