Many children are picky eaters and need help when they won’t eat the amount or variety required to get the appropriate nutrients.
According to Myriam Ortiz, MD, Ochsner pediatrician, about one in four kids has an eating problem in early childhood. “Some children only eat certain foods,” said Dr. Ortiz. “Others will eat little or nothing at all.”
Children often refuse to eat in order to attract attention from their parents. Oftentimes, “picky eaters” will eat much better at daycare; this is likely because children have the tendency to eat better, and try new foods, when in group settings.
“Parents can help by exposing children to new healthy foods again and again,” added Dr. Ortiz. “Parents need to keep trying, as children can be relentless in their defiance. Sometimes, just having it on the plate in front of them over and over will work.”
But well-meaning parents can accidentally promote bad behaviors—for example, letting kids end a meal by throwing a fit. A parent’s duty is to offer healthy, age-appropriate food in a pleasant atmosphere where the child does not feel forced to eat.
Dr. Ortiz has these tips for parents of a picky eater:
-Remain calm. In most cases, the child’s behavior is typical.
-Don’t force a child to clean his or her plate. If a meal is missed, they will make it up later. Remember, children’s appetites fluctuate day to day.
-Minimize juices and any sweet drinks; encourage drinking plain water.
-Dessert should follow a healthy meal, not replace one.
-Involve your child in the process of meal preparation. Children may be more apt to eat foods they helped to prepare.
-Make changes so gradual that your child doesn’t notice. If a child will balk after four bites, for example, stop after four bites. In a few days, try five or six.
-Praise good behavior, such as trying new foods.
-Be consistent. Make sure other caregivers follow suit.
-Do not withhold food as a form of punishment.
-Reach out to the child’s pediatrician if nutrition is becoming critical, mealtime disruptions have worsened for months, or progress has stalled.