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      Home / Picky Eating / Tips

      Struggling with a picky eater?

      Don't panic - we have some tips for you!

      Are you worried that your child is not eating healthy enough, and not getting the right nutrients to grow and develop well? Dealing with a child who is a picky eater can be frustrating, especially when you, as a mom, don’t know what you can do or are unsure how you can expand your child’s diet.

      Children who are picky eaters have limited diets and are at risk of not getting enough or even the right nutrients they need to grow, develop and thrive.1 The great news is that there are many proven ways to persuade your child to try, accept and even enjoy new and healthy foods.

      Here is a list of helpful tips we have compiled just for you:

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      If your child isn’t hungry, don’t force a meal or snack. Let them come to you when they are hungry.

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      Don’t bribe your child to eat certain foods as this can make the treat more exciting for them, and the food you want them to eat a chore.

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      Serve small portions to avoid overwhelming your child, especially when trying new foods.

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      Serve meals and snacks at the same time every day.

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      Be creative with recipes and presentation. Add chopped veggies to pizza or soup or use different shape cookie cutters to make veggies or fruit into fun shapes.

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      Reward good eating the right way – with praise, or stickers, or even a favourite game they can play after eating and not with treats such as ice cream, chips or sweets.

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      Involve your children in the meal planning and cooking – let them put the groceries in the trolley, have them wash and peel the veggies or sift the flour.

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      Be patient! Don’t lose your temper or shout but be patient and caring.

      References:

      1. Kubala J. 16 Helpful Tips for Picky Eaters. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/tips-for-picky-eaters Date Accessed: April 2021.
      2. 10 Tips for Parents of Picky Eaters. Available at: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/toddler/nutrition/Pages/Picky-Eaters.aspx Date Accessed: April 2021.
      3. Mayo Clinic Staff. Children’s Health. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/childrens-health/in-depth/childrens-health/art-20044948?p=1 Date Accessed: April 2021.
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