Nibble and Rest's Parents Guide to Fussy Eating

Dealing with fussy eaters can be a frustrating and difficult task for parents. However, with a little patience and understanding, you can help your child develop healthy eating habits and overcome their picky eating behaviors.

First and foremost, it’s important to remember that picky eating is a normal part of child development. Children’s taste buds are constantly changing, and it can take time for them to develop a taste for new foods.

One of the most effective ways to encourage your child to try new foods is through positive reinforcement. This can be as simple as praising your child for trying a new food, or offering a small reward for finishing a meal that includes a food they’re not accustomed to.

Another key strategy is to involve your child in the meal planning and preparation process. This can help them feel more invested in the meal and more likely to try new foods.

It’s also important to be patient and persistent with your child. Don’t give up on a food after one rejection. Keep offering new foods, even if your child initially refuses them. It can take up to 15 times for a child to accept a new food, so be persistent.

Another important tip is to make sure your child is getting enough to eat throughout the day. If your child is overly hungry, they may be more resistant to trying new foods at mealtime.

Finally, try to set a good example for your child by eating a wide variety of foods yourself. Children often model their behavior after the adults in their life, so if you are willing to try new foods and have a positive attitude towards them, your child is more likely to do the same.

In summary, dealing with fussy eaters can be a challenging task, but with a little patience, persistence, and positive reinforcement, you can help your child overcome their picky eating behaviors and develop healthy eating habits. Encourage your child to try new foods, involve them in meal planning, and set a good example yourself. 

If you would like more information on this topic you can download our free guide to fussy eating e-book available here

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