Tips and Tricks for Parents: Navigating the Picky Eating Phase with Your Child

Dealing with a picky eater can be a challenge that many parents face. It’s a journey filled with tiny forks, colorful plates, and a whole lot of patience. But fear not! Embracing your child’s picky eating phase can be fun and educational for both of you. Let’s dive into some creative strategies to make mealtime less about fuss and more about exploration and enjoyment.

Embrace the Mess

It’s time to roll up those sleeves and dive in! Don’t be afraid to get messy. Children learn through their senses, and feeling their food can be an important part of this. Consider using plastic drop cloths or old newspapers for easy clean-up. Remember, a little mess today can lead to a love for a variety of foods tomorrow. This is called sensory learning.

Cooking Together

Involve your kids in meal prep. This doesn’t mean handing them a knife and letting them chop veggies. It’s about letting them experience food preparation in a safe and fun way. Think washing vegetables, stirring batter, or sprinkling cheese. It’s a great way to introduce them to new foods in a non-threatening way.

Fun Dinnerware

Never underestimate the power of a superhero plate or a fork that looks like a spaceship. Fun plates, utensils, and cups can turn a dreaded meal into an exciting adventure. This simple change can make unfamiliar foods seem more appealing when served on a plate they love.

Food Pairing

Pair two foods they are comfortable with alongside a new food. This approach eases them into trying something new while surrounded by the familiarity of their favorite foods. It’s like having a safety net while exploring uncharted territories. This technique can provide comfort and reduce anxiety about trying new foods.

 Portion Play

Serve small portions to avoid overwhelming your child. A mountain of peas can look daunting to a little one. Start with a pea-sized portion of new foods – literally! This makes the idea of trying it far less intimidating.  And keep in mind that their tiny mouths are learning how to eat, so give them smaller amounts on a spoon to allow their mouths to learn how to chew and move the food before swallowing. This is hard work!

Sensory-Based Food Play

Encourage sensory-based food play. This might seem counterintuitive, but it’s a fantastic way to get children to interact with new foods. Let them smash, squish, and even play make-believe with their food. Sensory play helps build familiarity and curiosity.

Family Mealtime Routine

Establishing a family mealtime routine can provide a sense of security and predictability. Eating together as a family, without distractions like TV, can encourage your child to try new foods as they watch others enjoying different meals. It’s also a perfect opportunity for modeling healthy eating habits.

Pair Eating with Fun Activities

Try pairing eating with something fun. Maybe it’s storytelling during dinner, a color-themed meal night, or a picnic in the living room. The key is to associate eating with positive experiences. This doesn’t mean you should bribe them with toys or dessert, but rather create a joyful atmosphere around mealtime.

Remember, every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another. The goal isn’t to force them to eat certain foods but to create a positive relationship with food. Be patient and keep experimenting with these tips and tricks. Celebrate the small victories, and most importantly, keep mealtime a stress-free zone for you and your child.

Happy feeding!

P.S. Curious if your child could benefit from Pediatric Feeding Therapy? Contact us for a Free Screening. For more parenting tips and tricks, don’t forget to subscribe to our blog. Share your own experiences in the comments below, or reach out if you have any questions!