Fussy eaters

It is normal for children to refuse to eat or taste new food. Below are some top tips to encourage fussy eaters.

• Children learn by copying – eat with your child as often as you can and give them the same food as the rest of the family.
• Limit the number of snacks so that your child is hungry at meal time.
• If your child refuses food, don’t force them to eat it. Reintroduce the food at another time as your child’s taste changes over time.
• Give small portions and be patient as your child may be a slow eater.
• Involve your child in preparing meals – a child is more likely to try food if they were involved in the preparation.
• Make mealtimes fun – don’t limit conversation to talking about food.
• Have regular mealtimes – don’t leave it until your child is too tired to eat.
• Invite an adult your child likes for meals as a child is more likely to eat for someone else.
• Hide vegetables in sauces.
• Leave the fruit bowl out for your child to help themselves.
• Don’t forget to praise your child for eating!

Also remember it is important to be patient as it may take many attempts before your child accepts some foods.

For further advice or support please contact your School Nurses.