Food Preferences
Here's What To Do
Try to keep mealtime positive and flexible. Focus on the conversation at the table instead of what I'm eating or not eating. Try to act like it's no big deal if I refuse food or even an entire meal.
At each meal, try to offer one food I typically like. If I like applesauce, ketchup, or other dips, include that on my plate and invite me to dip.
Offer me small portion sizes of a variety of items (like: a tablespoon of peas or 2 strawberries). Even if I don't try something today, offer it another time. My likes change a lot from day to day!
If I seem to be filling up on snacks before mealtime, consider eliminating snacktime or offering a snack earlier in the day. Or, offer fruits and veggies as a snack instead of more filling foods.
Put PEER Into Action
Pause:
- Take a deep belly breath. It can be frustrating when I refuse food, and you'll be able to help me better if you're able to stay calm.
Engage:
- "Did you notice you have applesauce on your plate? You could try dipping the chicken into the applesauce if that sounds yummy."
- "It seems like you're not very hungry right now. That's okay, I trust that you'll eat when your body needs it."
Encourage:
- A great way to help me feel more control over my food is to let me help with food preparation. I can spread peanut butter on a cracker, peel my own banana, and more!
- Encourage me to follow my body's own internal hunger cues. Ask me "Is your tummy full? Or are you still feeling hungry?." Trust me if I say no instead of asking me to eat more.
Reflect:
- Does it seem like some days I'm surviving on air and other days I have a much bigger appetite? This is totally normal for my age.
As your child grows...
They will probably develop more consistent food likes and dislikes. Try to continue to offer a variety of foods, but try offering one preferred food at each mealtime.