Fussy Eaters

We've all heard stories about the preschooler who will only eat hot dogs and pizza.  It seems like kids get fussier as they transition from toddlers to preschoolers.  It doesn't seem right to force them to eat.  So what can parents do about these picky eaters?  Is there any way to help them eat healthier.

First of all, we need to understand that picky eating is normal in the preschool years, but kids should be eating more than hot dogs and pizza.  As parents, we have the responsibility to encourage healthy eating that is nutritious.Here are several strategies:

1. Set boundaries.  Make a rule that if the kids will not eat any of their healthy dinner, they do not get any dessert.  Make rule that one bite of their favoirte food has be followed by one bite of their not-so-favorite food.
2. Do not worry that your child will starve if you deny them their favoirte foods.  Children will not starve themselves.  They will eat when they are hungry.  
3. Do not let kids fill up on milk and juice.  Offer water throughout the day instead of milk or juice to encourage eating at all mealtimes.
4. Avoid chips and other salty, junk foods.
5. Try a snacking schedule of meals instead of three big meals.  Preschoolers have small appetites and snacking on healthy foods can work better.
6. Do not force children to eat all of their dinners.  This sets the tone for obesity.

These simple steps will not make preschool fussiness easy for parents, but the good news is that kids will be better nourished.

Take Care,  

Michael Clatch, Psy.D.