How To Raise A Non-Picky Eater

#1 Lead by example

You are the most impactful teacher your kids will have in their life. They observe everything you do. Food is more readily accepted in young children when others around them are eating the same type of food. Such modeling positively highlights the enjoyment of such foods.

• How do you approach new foods?
• Do you make, serve and eat vegetables?
• What snack choices do you make?
• Are you using negative language around certain foods?
  Ex. “Brussel sprouts are so gross”

Tips:
– Make eating meals together a priority.
– Use positive language around food.
– Choose healthy snacks, beverages, meals when with your kids.

#2 Consistent Exposure

Healthy eating is not a one time thing, it is a lifestyle. And if a child does not accept a new food the first time, don’t give up, it may take 20+ exposures before a child is willing to try a new food. Repeated exposure to a new food in a non-coercive manner in a light-hearted, fun environment can help overcome picky eating.

And if they truly don’t like a food, that’s ok, give it time and try again later. Think about the foods you hated as a kid but now enjoy. Taste buds change over time so keep consistent with exposure to these foods.

Tips:
– Switch up the preparation of foods. Your child may not like steamed broccoli but what about roasted with bread crumbs and parmesan cheese?
– Focus on what is fresh and in season, it makes all the difference in the taste!
– If able, have your child grow the food they have an aversion to. Ex. If they dislike tomatoes, grow a little tomato plant in a pot and see if they want to try the fruit they grew!

Contact

kat@katherineburris.com

760-888-8888