Toddlers can become picky eaters for a number of reasons.
- They are getting used to the different textures, colours, and tastes of foods.
- They are becoming more independent, and learning how to make their own choices.
- They have different nutrition requirements than when they had when they were a baby (being more active and not growing as much).
The Baby Center offers a number of tips for parents and caregivers of picky eaters who would like to introduce new foods. For example, choosing age-appropriate foods & amounts, maintaining a regular meal and snack schedule, keeping mealtime calm and free of distractions, and boosting nutritional value in foods they love. For more, take a look AT THIS LINK.
A few experts also recommend involving your child in meal preparation. Not only are finicky eaters more likely to eat what they have created, they are also developing an important life skill, improving their interest in food, and creating healthy family bonds. Eat Right Ontario answers some commonly asked questions about picky eaters, and gives a number of excellent tips on how to cook with kids of different ages:
Creating Together also offers Toddler Food Prep workshops each month from 10-11am, with Marcella from Food Share. Our next one is scheduled for September 13th. Here’s a peak at last month’s workshop with Marcella – “English Muffin Mini pizza’s”!
