Dealing With a Picky Eater

Do you ever wonder how you, eater of almost everything, wound up with a child who is picky when it comes to food? Experts disagree if finicky eaters are born or made, but most likely, it’s a combination of the two. Whatever the case, it’s how you deal with the problem that can make matters better — or worse.

• As the parent, you're responsible for offering your child healthy meals and snacks — and for respecting her appetite. Your child’s job is to decide how much to eat. (In other words, you should not become your child's personal chef!) While it’s sometimes tough to follow this rule, it will make life at the kitchen table much easier.
• When your child refuses to eat something, it’s best not to make a big deal about it. Although it’s incredibly tempting to bribe her with dessert or a toy, this practice will backfire in the long run. On the other hand, don't give up on the food she doesn’t want — sometimes it may take between 10 to 15 tries of a food before your child actually likes it! Keep offering it in different ways, such as raw instead of cooked, or with ketchup on the side for dipping.
• Get your child involved in meal planning by giving her simple choices. Should we eat peas or carrots tonight? Do you want strawberries or apples for your snack? Take her to the grocery store with you and encourage her to pick out foods he wants to try. Letting your child make these decisions can help her express her growing independence.
• When your child asks for mac ’n’ cheese for the fourth night in a row, should you give in? Probably not. Try “running out” of the food or making something similar. “Sorry, Sally, but we’re all out of macaroni. Instead we're having spaghetti!” You can also fix the requested food in a slightly different way. For instance, try mac ’n’ cheese with peas or tuna mixed in.
• Many parents worry about their finicky child’s nutrient intake. A child will consume the energy her body needs, but to ease your mind, know that there is always a substitute food that has similar nutrient content — fruits instead of vegetables, yogurt instead of milk. Also, always have one or two standby foods on the table that your child does like — bread, tortillas, fruit, etc. Giving your child a multi-vitamin mineral supplement is another good way to fill in the nutrient gaps until she broadens her diet.

About the author: Bridget Swinney is a registered dietitian, mom of two former picky eaters and author of Baby Bites, Healthy Food for Healthy Kids and Eating Expectantly.