Parenting tips how to handle your fussy eater kid

It’s worrisome for parents when their child does not get sufficient nutrition, especially when their child are fussy eaters. A child’s growth depends on physical, mental, emotional, cognitive, and social development. Making your children follow a nutritionally balanced diet from an early age will ensure healthy growth and development.

Nutritional requirements 

Every child requires nutritious and adequate food to stay healthy and active. The choice of food should be that it includes some of the essential nutrients such as,

●      Calcium and Vitamin D for stronger bones and teeth

●      Carbohydrates and good fat for energy 

●      Iron, Potassium and Phosphorus for healthy growth and development

●      Vitamins A, C, E, and Zinc to build immune system

Parenting a fussy eater can be challenging, but with the right guidance and attitude, it can also be an enjoyable experience for parents and child.

Here are five recommendations to handle child who is a fussy/picky eater.

Eat as a family:

The most important tip for parents of fussy eaters is to make sure they are eating meals together as a family. This helps create an atmosphere where the child feels comfortable trying new foods without having to do that alone. It also allows parents to show their children what healthy eating looks like, so they can learn by example.

Avoid using bribes:

If your child doesn't eat healthy food, it's better not to bribe them with junk food. It won’t just spoil their habits but their health too. Parents must limit their child's intake of junk food, as this can make them even pickier. Allowing them to eat junk food regularly could lead to further fussiness and unhealthy eating habits.

Make food fun:

Ultimately, eating should be a fun experience. Please don't make it an ordeal by pressuring your child to try new foods. Instead, focus on making meals enjoyable and experiment with different recipes your child might find interesting. Try adding hidden vegetables or ingredients to their favourite dishes to make them more nutritious. By making mealtime fun and interesting, your child will be more likely to explore different foods without feeling anxious or overwhelmed.

Avoid food fights:

Parents need to be patient with their fussy eaters. Eating is a process; it could take time before your child starts to become more adventurous in their food choices. Please don't give up on them and continue encouraging them as they explore different foods. Also, be sure to praise them when they try something new. With a little patience and encouragement, your fussy eater can become an adventurous eater in no time!

Use variety:

One of the best ways to help out fussy eaters is to offer them familiar foods in unfamiliar shapes. For example, if they like mashed potatoes, try giving them diced potatoes instead. This will help them get comfortable with different textures and flavours while giving them something familiar to work with.

These five tips should help you foster a healthy relationship between your fussy eater and food. Remember that it takes time and patience for these changes to take effect, so maintain a positive attitude and be consistent with your efforts. With the right guidance, you can help your fussy eater become an adventurous eater in no time!

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the above Blog are the independent views of the blogger / author based on his/her experience on child growth and development. It is not intended to represent Abbott’s viewpoint on the matter or to promote Abbott’s products. Nothing in this content should be construed as Abbott giving medical advice or making a recommendation, endorsement of any kind, nor does it seek to replace medical opinion or independent professional/ clinical judgement.

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