As children develop, so do their taste buds but there are those children who just don’t catch on quickly. These groups of children go through what is called the neophobic phase, which can either be worrisome or frustrating to many parents. Neophobia is when children are afraid or reluctant to try new foods; it accounts for about 40% of children and can have a direct impact on diet quality and the overall health of children at an early age.

According to Affinity Health’s CEO, Murray Hewlett, having a picky eater can make mealtimes a bit of a challenge. The biggest worry is that your child might not get all the nutrients they need, which are crucial for their growth and health.

“It can also make cooking and family meals more stressful, as you might end up making separate dishes to accommodate their preferences.

 

“It’s common for kids to go through a phase where they suddenly turn their noses up at foods they used to eat without a fuss. This is often called the ‘neophobic phase’, and it usually begins in the toddler years,” adding that while this phase can be challenging for parents to navigate, the good news is that it is a natural part of growing up.

 

“Researchers claim the neophobic phase is linked to a child’s development and an instinct to be cautious about unfamiliar things, which, way back when, could have kept them safe from harmful substances,” adds Hewlett.  

 

And while most kids do outgrow the picky eating stage as they get older, if a child seems stuck in their picky ways, it might help to get creative with meals. This includes involving them in food preparation times or seeking advice from a pediatrician or nutritionist to ensure they’re getting the nutrition they need.

 

Hewlett adds, “Kids are naturally curious and love exploring, including with food. But, just like they can be cautious about new experiences, they can also be wary of new tastes and textures. It’s all part of how they learn and understand the world around them. Being picky helps them assert their independence and make choices, even if it’s just saying ‘no’ to broccoli!”

Hewlett offers a few simple nutrition tips and tricks to help your picky eater child.

 

One of the best ways to persuade your fussy eater to try new meals is to provide them with various choices. Exposing your child to different flavours and textures increases their chances of finding foods they enjoy and expanding their palate.

 

Here are some tips for offering a variety of foods:

 

Children often replicate their parents’ eating habits and preferences. If kids witness you eating a range of healthful meals, they are more likely to be willing to try something new. Be a good role model by displaying healthy eating habits at home.

 

Here’s how to lead by example:

 

Letting your child help with meal preparation can make mealtimes more enjoyable and encourage them to try new foods. Try these ideas to make meals fun and interactive:

 

It’s essential to avoid pressuring your picky eater to try new foods or finish everything on their plate. Forcing or coercing a child to eat can negatively affect food and mealtime stress. Instead, use a more patient and relaxed approach.

 

 

Consistency is essential when dealing with fussy eaters. Establishing clear mealtime rules and routines may make your kid feel more structured and predictable, making it easier for them to try new foods.

 

Consider the following tips for consistency:

 

“Remember that every child is unique, and it may take them time to become an adventurous eater. By offering a variety of foods, being a positive role model, making meals interactive and fun, avoiding pressure, and maintaining consistency, you can create a positive food environment that supports your picky eater’s journey toward enjoying a balanced and nutritious diet,” concludes Hewlett.