Introducing New Foods at Home

Introducing new foods works best as a gentle, ongoing process rather than a one-off event. Children are naturally more willing to try something new when it's presented alongside foods they already enjoy, and when there's no pressure attached.

A few things that help

  • Serve one new food at a time, alongside familiar favourites
  • Offer small amounts - a taste is a win, even if it's not eaten
  • Get children involved in preparing food, even in small ways
  • Eat the same food yourself and let your child see you enjoying it

According to Raising Children Network(opens in new tab), it can take 10-15 exposures or more before a child accepts a new food, so persistence - without pressure - pays off over time.

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