I was raised a picky eater. When I was younger, I would hide peas and milk in my cheeks and visit the restroom only to spit it all out in the toilet. I never really liked many vegetables, so I am not surprised that my children are not huge vegetable eaters either. So, how do we, as parents, handle picky eaters? Here are some ways to tame that picky side:
Do not offer sugary foods (or foods he/she is prone to only eat). I know my son won't eat his sandwich, if I offer a side such as chips with the sandwich.
Keep distractions to a minimum. If there are other children running around or the television is on, for a few examples, children will not focus on eating.
Hide food/nutrients in other foods you make. One of my secrets is to hide veggies in their meatloaf. The children have no idea it is in there and gobble up the meatloaf.
Make it fun. Turn sandwiches into shapes by using cookie cutters, dip veggies in butter or a sauce your child likes, or put food coloring in certain foods like mashed potatoes.
Lead by example. Your child is going to eat what you eat. If you never eat healthy foods, such as veggies, your child won't either.
Do not be a short order cook. Offer your child one option and stick with it. Keep trying by offering these foods to your children and eventually he/she will come around.
Don't use bribery. Your child will learn that they need to reject these foods in order to gain something out of the experience.
If you are concerned with your child's health due to lack of eating certain foods, or eating too many bad foods, consult their physician. Taking small steps to change their habits is definitely taking the correct approach to tackling your picky eater.
By Guest Blogger from Mommies With Cents
