A Guide for Parents
As a pediatrician, I’ve encountered many parents who are concerned about their
child’;s eating habits. Picky eating is a common issue and can be challenging to
navigate. This blog aims to shed light on why children can be picky eaters and
provide practical strategies to help parents address this behavior effectively.
Why Are Children Picky Eaters?
Picky eating is a normal part of child development, particularly in toddlers and
preschoolers. Here are some key reasons why children may exhibit picky eating:
1. Developmental Stages: Between ages 1 and 3, children are learning to assert their
independence, and food preferences can be a way for them to exert control.
2. Sensory Sensitivities: Children have varying degrees of sensitivity to tastes, textures,
and smells. A food that seems mild to an adult might be overwhelming to a child.
3. Neophobia: The fear of new things, including new foods, is common in young
children. This can lead to reluctance to try unfamiliar foods.
4. Genetic Factors: Some research suggests that genetic factors can influence taste
preferences and aversions.
5. Routine and Familiarity: Children thrive on routine and familiarity. New or unusual
foods can be met with resistance simply because they disrupt the familiar eating
patterns.
How do I Manage Picky Eating?
While picky eating can be frustrating, there are effective strategies parents can use to
encourage healthier eating habits and create a more positive mealtime experience:
1. Be Patient and Persistent: Children may need to be exposed to a new food multiple
times before they accept it. Continue to offer new foods without pressure.
2. Involve Your Child in Meal Preparation: Engage your child in cooking or food
preparation. This involvement can increase their interest in trying new foods.
3. Offer a Variety of Foods: Include a range of foods in each meal, including some that
you know your child likes. This ensures that even if they refuse the new items, they
still have familiar options.
4. Make Meals Fun: Present foods in creative ways. Use cookie cutters to make fun
shapes, or create colorful and visually appealing plates.
5. Avoid Power Struggles: Pressuring a child to eat can create negative associations
with mealtime. Encourage but don’t force. Praise them for trying new things, even if
they don’t finish them.
6. Set a Good Example: Children often mimic the behavior of adults. Eat a variety of
foods yourself and demonstrate positive attitudes toward trying new things.
7. Create a Positive Mealtime Environment: Avoid distractions like TV or tablets
during meals. Focus on making mealtimes pleasant and stress-free.
8. Establish a Routine: Serve meals and snacks at consistent times each day. A routine
helps children understand what to expect and reduces anxiety around mealtime.
9. Introduce New Foods Slowly: Pair new foods with familiar ones to ease the
transition. For example, add a new vegetable to a dish your child already enjoys.
10. Seek Professional Advice if Needed: If picky eating persists and leads to nutritional
deficiencies or growth concerns, consult with a pediatric dietitian or your pediatrician
for personalized guidance.
When do I need to Seek Help?
While picky eating is usually a phase that many children outgrow, there are times when it’s
important to seek professional help:
Nutritional Deficiencies: If your child’s diet is lacking in essential nutrients,
professional advice can help ensure they receive balanced nutrition.
Growth Concerns: Significant weight loss or poor growth may indicate underlying
issues that need to be addressed.
Severe Anxiety or Behavioral Issues: If mealtimes are causing extreme distress or
behavioral problems, it might be helpful to consult a specialist.
Conclusion
Picky eating is a common developmental stage, and with patience and strategic approaches,
most children will gradually expand their food preferences. By creating a supportive and non-
pressuring environment, involving your child in the food process, and setting a positive
example, you can help your child develop a healthier relationship with food. Remember, each
child is unique, so what works for one may not work for another. Be flexible and continue to
offer support as your child grows and their tastes evolve.
If you have persistent concerns about your child’s eating habits, don’t hesitate to reach out at
kiranjot@amritaclinics.com . Together, we can help your child develop a balanced and
positive approach to eating.