Cooking for a picky toddler need not be a struggle with these easy tips and tricks. Feeding a picky toddler is not so much about the food itself, than the approach. Create a stress-free and positive environment where your kid feels comfortable in trying new tastes and textures. The idea is to understand their preferences and work with them and not against their wishes.
Introduce New Food Frequently – Studies show that introducing new meal options frequently increases the child’s acceptance of the change. It won’t happen instantly and may take some time but don’t give up. Keeping serving new options alongside their favourite dish and gradually they will start accepting the new addition as well.
Serve Small Portions – Serving small portions of new food item will make it less intimidating for your little one and when paired with one favourite dish, your task becomes simpler. Remember it is easier to ask for some more, than dealing with the pressure of finishing everything on the plate.
Involve Kids in Cooking – Kids are more likely to eat a dish that they have helped prepare. This is one strategy that usually doesn’t go wrong. Besides it is a great way of spending some quality time together while reinforcing some life skills as well. It would be even better if kids accompany you while grocery shopping which fosters their natural curiosity.
Eat Together as a Whole Family – Kids are very observant and notice every small thing and try tocopy the same. Eating together can encourage toddlers to try out new foods. It is also a great way to form bonds within the family.
Things to Avoid with Picky Toddlers
Do not turn meal times to a power struggle as it can strongly backfire. Don’t force kids to eat certain things as it can lead to aversion that can stay for a long time. Also, using food as a punishment or reward can also lead to unhealthy food habits.
Remember, create a stress-free, positive mealtime environment so that your child is comfortable in eating whatever you have prepared.
