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Tips for Parents of Picky Eating Preschoolers
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If you have a preschooler, chances are s/he is, has been, or will be a picky eater. What is a parent to do? The fact is, you can’t force your preschooler to eat. Of course, you can demand that plates be cleaned before dessert or be sneaky and hide carrots in smoothies. But these tactics may not be necessary and won't help your preschooler form healthy eating habits. Instead, realize that picky eating is a common and normal stage of child development and try these simple tips to get through the picky eating stage with a little less frustration.
Tips for Picky Eaters
Think back. Can you remember foods you refused to eat as a child? Chances are those food aversions were real and not a way to exert power over your parents. Realize that your preschooler may truly dislike many foods at this time in his/her life. And since many of your own early food dislikes may be favorite foods today, be confident that your preschooler will eventually welcome more foods.
Wait it out. The picky eating stage usually ends or gets significantly better. While you wait, continue to offer healthy foods including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts, seeds, and low-fat meat and dairy products. Stick to planned meal and snack times when possible. Serve preschooler-sized portions of a variety of foods at each meal and snack.
Make the foods your preschooler does eat a little healthier. Make a list of foods your preschooler will eat on most occasions. There are probably small changes you can make to those foods and meals to make them a little healthier. For example, pancakes can get a nutrient and fiber boost by using whole-wheat flour or adding other whole grains such as oats. If your preschooler loves bread, use spreads such as avocado dip or hummus to add extra nutrients. Pizza is the favorite food? Try versions with whole wheat crust, lots of tomato sauce and some veggies on top (diced extra small!). You'll feel better about the picky eating by making favorite foods more nutrient-dense.
Serve food that can be saved. Tired of throwing away uneaten scrambled eggs or oatmeal? If you’re unsure whether your preschooler is going to eat the meal you took time to prepare, choose foods that are easily saved until the next meal or snack time.
Make the most of snacks. It's hard to predict when your preschooler will be hungry. If your preschooler seems to be most picky at mealtimes, make sure you have healthy snacks on hand. If you know your preschooler ate a bunch of nutrient-dense foods at snack time, you'll feel less anxious about their poor appetite at meals.
PreschoolRock Moms Internet Radio Show - Dealing with a Picky Eater
Listen to our radio show - Dealing With a Picky Eater - where we offer help for frustrated parents and tips to make sure your picky eater is still getting the nutrition s/he needs.
Good luck and get ready for the teenage years when you'll be busy shopping at warehouse clubs to satisfy your child's appetite!
by Kati Chevaux
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