Facing a fussy eater

RIGHT now, I’m deep in the trenches of fussy toddler eating.

While I’m worried about getting enough vegies and variety in my toddler’s diet, I’m even more worried about laying down eating patterns that will stay with him for life.

Desperate for a way forward, I recently chatted to Alex and Anna, accredited dietitians/ nutritionists and founders of The Biting Truth, in order to get a sense-check on how to deal.

Their big tips included: Don’t make a big deal

Giving your child’s fussy eating a lot of attention is only likely to encourage your child to keep behaving this way. Don’t expect big changes overnight

Try to set more realistic expectations, for example, start by asking your child to simply touch, smell or lick a new food and praise any effort made.

Don’t focus on mess

Worrying about drinks and food spilling can create stress and make meal times not as enjoyable for your child. Keep meal times regular and try to make meals an enjoyable, relaxing occasion.

Never force feed

Force feeding your child new foods is unlikely to encourage their intake. Introduce a new food by offering your child a small amount of the new food on a plate with other familiar foods that you know your child enjoys.

The Biting Truth offers nutritional advice and healthy recipes.

For more, visit www.kidspot.com.au.