Other issues of Nutrition Advisor

“P” is for Picky
Practial Tips for Feeding Choosy Eaters

Afraid that your toddler will turn into a peanut butter and jelly sandwich because that’s all he seems to eat these days? Meal times can be a battle when it seems like your child’s diet consists of just one food group. Fortunately, these “food jags” are more frustrating than they are harmful.

Many of these common childhood eating behaviors are early attempts to be assertive, make decision and exercise independence; actions that are very normal for a growing child. There are other reasons like a decreased appetite as growth rate slows and possibly behavioral components (i.e. “no” really means “I need attention!”) It’s also not uncommon for children to refuse foods they previously enjoyed or have a fear when trying new foods.

It’s a parent’s job to provide healthy foods to their child, but it’s the child’s job to decide whether or not to eat them. Remember, it’s not what your child eats at one meal, but rather over several days that really counts. If your child continues to reject entire food groups for longer than a two-week period, it’s a good idea to speak with his or her pediatrician.

Tips to Keep the Peace at Meals

• Be patient. It sometimes takes 5-10 tries of a new food before a child will accept it.
• Don’t force or bribe them to try a new food. Realize that they’ll like some and not others. That’s normal!
• Make mealtimes pleasant and relaxing rather than a power struggle. Stress during meals can foster poor eating habits, like emotional over or under eating.
• Watch for your child’s normal appetite and cues that he or she is satisfied, and don’t promote the “clean plate club.” It’s important for children to recognize when they’ve eaten enough.
• Encourage them to take at least one bite of a new food before eating their favorites. Don’t make a big deal about it; be very matter-of-fact.
• Offer limited food choices and allow them to choose between 2-3 foods. This gives them a sense of control without being too overwhelming.
• Focus on a new food’s color, shape or texture. Children rely primarily on the way a food looks.
• Make them part of the meal by having them help plan, shop and prepare the menu. Bring them shopping and ask them to pick out a new food for the family to try.
• Let younger children feel they are in control of what they eat by feeding themselves.
• Get creative and offer the same food different ways. For example, serve raw baby carrots with dip or cooked carrot wedges. When all else fails, “sneak” grated carrots into tomato sauce or meatloaf.
• Many kids don’t like extreme temperatures. Give hot food time to cool down and cold food a chance to warm up.
• Try not to restrict foods, or make them a “controlled substance.” Teach your children moderation when it comes to sweets and treats.
• Be a good role model. If your children see you eating spinach, they are more likely to try it too.
• Don’t limit your child’s food variety to only those foods you prefer. Children learn many behaviors from their parents.

Take one meal at a time and remember that it’s their overall diet, not just a day’s worth that really counts. Focus on the things that are positive about your children’s eating habits. Keeping these practical tips in mind will help your children develop a diet full of variety and lead to a lifetime of healthier eating habits.

The Yale-New Haven Nutrition Advisor is created by registered dietitians and dietetic interns who staff the Nutrition Clinic at Yale-New Haven Hospital. For information, contact the Nutrition InfoLine at (203) 688-2422.

For more information on this topic, see

Toddler Meals
Nutrition Family Fact Sheets

Last revised: July 18, 2007 (dh)

Home page URL: http://www.ynhh.org

All information is intended for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and consult your physician before starting a new fitness regimen.