Picky Toddler Tips

Picky toddler tips and ideas to help you cope with your fussy toddler who just won't eat.

Most toddlers go through a stage of picky eating, and although this can be a difficult period for parents most toddlers will be just fine and this picky eater stage will pass.  However, it's important to note that if your toddler only wants to eat sweets or junk food you'll need to train them to adapt to healthy meals.  They won't simply outgrow their taste for junk food or sugar (lets face it sugar tastes good), they'll need to be taught to eat other healthy giving foods and have the treats in moderation.

Here are a few tips to help you cope with your fussy eater:

Try to avoid too many snacks throughout the day.  If your toddler loves to graze as many toddlers do this is often okay if the snacks they're having are nutritious.  However, if your toddler wants cookies instead of dinner this is a no-no.  Try to avoid too many snacks so your toddler will eat at meal times.

Teach your toddler where foods come from and let them help you with food preparation.  Go to the supermarket and let them choose several fruits or vegetables they would like to eat, tell them the names of vegetables and create a general interest in food.

Seve smaller portions.  Putting a huge plate of food in front of a toddler can be overwhelming.  Serve them a small portion of food and if they want more they can have seconds.

If possible try to eat together as a family.  Try to create a family dinner routine and teach your toddler the importance of sitting down and enjoying meal times together.

If your toddler refuses to eat a certain food don't make a big deal about it, this will only make things worst.  Just explain to your toddler why the food is so good for them in a very matter of fact way and leave it at that.  Getting into a power struggle with a toddler is no fun and won't give you the results you want.

Don't bargain with dessert.  It's not a good idea to use dessert as a barganing tool.  Your toddler will grow up to think that if they can get through the yucky foods ie. veggies then they can have the wonderful reward ie. dessert.  Try to teach your toddler that healthy food is delicious and should be enjoyed and that dessert is also a good part of life and food, but not a reward for eating the healthy stuff.

Dno't give up too soon.  If you introduce a new food and your toddler turns their nose up at it, don't dispair.  Toddlers are moody creatures and change their mind like the wind.  Keep trying and presenting the new food and they may eventually try it and even like it.