Supporting Picky Eaters

Picky eating is a common part of childhood development, and many children need time and repeated exposure before trying new foods. Creating positive mealtime experiences can help children build healthy eating habits and develop confidence around food.

Here are some helpful suggestions for supporting picky eaters at home:

Helpful Tips for Families

• Offer new foods alongside familiar favorites. Children are more likely to try something new when it is paired with foods they already enjoy.
• Keep mealtimes positive and pressure-free. Encouragement works better than forcing or bribing children to eat.
• Be patient with repeated exposure. It can take many attempts before a child is willing to taste a new food.
• Model healthy eating habits. Children often imitate adults and peers when they see them enjoying a variety of foods.
• Involve children in food preparation. Letting children help choose, wash, or prepare foods can increase their interest in trying them.
• Maintain consistent meal and snack routines. Predictable schedules help children come to meals ready to eat.
• Offer small portions first. Smaller servings can feel less overwhelming and reduce food waste.
• Celebrate progress, not perfection. Even smelling, touching, or tasting a new food is a positive step.

When to Seek Additional Support

If picky eating is affecting your child’s growth, nutrition, energy levels, or causing significant stress at meals, consider speaking with your pediatrician or a registered dietitian for additional guidance.

Working together, we can help children develop healthy and positive relationships with food.

Thank you for your partnership and support.