Try At Home: Feeding Strategies

It isn't uncommon to find many children to be picky eaters. If your child is refusing to eat most foods and having difficulties with obtaining enough nutrients, you may have some concerns.

If you have significant difficulties with feeding or your child has complex swallowing needs (i.e. structural differences, choking risks), you may need to consult a professional for further advice.

General Strategies

• Ensure all mealtimes are kept positive - negative experiences during mealtime may lead to a child refusing to partake or eat,

• Try separating dishes or serving meals in small bowls - large meals can often feel very intimidating for a child,

• Use the SOS approach to engage the child in learning about foods without expectation of eating, e.g. talk about the colour, shape, smell, feel and thoughts about food,

• Consider your child preferences - sometimes, your child may simply dislike a certain food. Seek alternative foods to ensure they get their nutrients,

• For very young children, consider the readiness of your child in eating certain foods - it is important to provide time to transition your child to more solid foods,

• Keep mealtimes at a relatively regular time to reduce anxieties around mealtimes.

Resources

• Feeding Development and Difficulties : Typical and Problematic Feeding and Mealtime Behaviours

• Fussy eating in children: tips to help

• Nutrition – babies and toddlers

• Introducing solids: why, when, what & how

• SOS Approach to Feeding

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