Picky eating, or fussy eating, is when a child accepts only a limited range of foods and refuses new ones. It is very common in toddlers and preschoolers, partly because of a natural wariness of new foods, and most children grow out of it.
Key takeaways
- Children may need to try a new food many times before accepting it.
- Pressure, bribes and battles tend to make it worse.
- Appetite naturally varies from day to day.
What you can do
- Offer new foods alongside foods your child already likes.
- Eat together and model enjoying a variety of foods.
- Let your child decide how much to eat from what you offer.
When to talk to your doctor
Talk to your doctor if your child eats very few foods, is losing weight or not growing, gags or vomits with many textures, or if mealtimes cause serious distress.
