Picky eating is an extremely common concern, so parents should be happy to hear that a picky eating phase is a normal part of toddler development. There is even a name for it – neophobia (fear of new things) and it most commonly occurs between 18 and 24 months. The theory is that in hunter/gatherer societies the instinct to reject new foods was protective against potentially poisonous foods. However, in modern times, this can make mealtime frustrating. You know that homemade, free range organic veggie soup you spent 2 hours making isn’t poisonous, but how can your toddler be so sure?
So what can you do when your child rejects all things green and leafy? Below are suggestions from Dr. Caitlin O'Conner, a Denver-based Naturopathic Doctor and Certified Professional Midwife:
Camouflage. Getting picky kids to eat a variety of food requires creativity. Figure out how to sneak more nutrient-dense foods into familiar favorites. Try putting nuts and seeds into a coffee grinder, then sprinkling them into yogurt, soups or oatmeal. Make muffins with zucchini, sweet potato or squash. Use the food processor to chop veggies into tiny pieces (the smaller the better) and add to spaghetti sauces or mac and cheese. Smoothies are the ultimate Trojan horse – you can often sneak in greens, nutritious oils, protein powders and plain yogurt.
When at first you don’t succeed, try, try again. Studies have shown that toddlers often need to be exposed to the same food 10-20 times before they accept it. Often, parents give up after the first or second exposure, convinced that their child will go a lifetime hating broccoli. Don’t be discouraged and continue to offer variety.
Know when to hold them, know when to fold them. Often, refusing to eat a food isn’t as much about taste, as it is about exerting control. Toddlers are learning about independence and food choices are often a favorite place to practice. Let them make their own choices and don’t turn meals into a power struggle.
You are in charge of what and when, but let your child decide how much. Have a small “no thank you plate” and let your child put the foods they don’t want onto the plate.
You have enough jobs, being a short-order cook shouldn’t be one of them. It is easy to get into the habit of making special meals for kids because it is “easier” then a mealtime meltdown. It may be easier in the short term, but it the long run it gives the message that family meals are optional and you will be spending the next 10 years making mini-meals for each family member. You have better ways to spend your time.
Have reasonable expectations. Remember that toddlers aren’t growing as rapidly as they were as infants. There stomachs are approximately the size of their fists. Likely, they don’t need as much food as you think. Trust them to know their own needs.
Dr. Caitlin O’Connor is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor and a Certified Professional Midwife. She is the founding doctor of All Families Natural Health located at Lotus Studio Center for Acupuncture and Wellness in Denver. Visit their website at www.allfamiliesnaturalhealth.com or call (303)803-5355.
Comments (3)
Helpful ideas!!! Thanks
So many of my friends get so stressed out about what their kids are eating, so I would also add to just chill out about the whole thing. How many of us turned into good, diverse eaters later in life?
@Marla - Thanks!
@Heidi - I agree, the more of an "issue" eating becomes, the more kids will turn it into an arena for a power struggle. Often time relaxing a bit will show kids that food isn't about controlling, it is about nourishment and pleasure.
What do you think?
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!