Tips for Fussy Eaters

Fussy eating is a normal part of development. Raising Children Network(opens in new tab) notes that children are more likely to enjoy and try food when mealtimes are relaxed and pressure-free.

A few things that help

  • Offer new foods alongside familiar favourites, without pressure to finish
  • Keep trying - it can take 10-15 exposures (or more) before a new food is accepted
  • Let your child serve themselves where possible
  • Keep mealtimes short, social and calm - around 20 minutes is plenty
  • Avoid using dessert or treats as a bargaining tool

For a deeper look at why pressure-free mealtimes work, see our related article.

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