Whether it’s someone who would rather eat macaroni and cheese 365 days a year than try something green, someone who’s idea of an exotic meal is a PB&J with crunchy Jif or someone who just doesn’t like the look of most foods, everyone knows at least one picky eater. Most finicky feeders are choosiest during childhood and grow out of their habits and into healthy, well-nourished adults over time. While it’s comforting to know that there is likely light at the end of the tunnel, having a picky eater can be stressful for the entire family.
Mealtime, considered by many to be a relaxing highlight of the day, often becomes a time of strained patience and stubborn resolve on both sides of the spoon. Parents waver between keeping the peace around the table and ensuring that their child does not consist on chicken nuggets alone and children begin to dread dinnertime like a chemistry test. This scenario is not uncommon. Picky eaters are prevalent and more often than not are able to become more adventurous eaters as they get older. In the meantime, there are ways to make mealtimes a little more bearable for everyone involved. Food can indeed be fun.
Exposure is Everything:
Play is Placating:
Start Small:
Variety Variety Variety:
Patience and Practice: Growing into a more adventurous eater is a long process. The fears and aversions that children have developed have been ingrained for years, and breaking these habits will take time. Consistently making an effort to slowly challenge these fears will indeed pay off.