Dealing with Picky Eaters: What Works (Real Talk from a Mum of Two)
3 min read
Let’s be real—feeding kids can sometimes feel like a full-time job. One minute, they’re devouring everything in sight; the next, they’re turning their noses up at foods they loved yesterday. Sound familiar? If you’re nodding along, welcome to the club.
As a mum of two boys, I’ve been through the highs and lows of picky eating. From food phases to texture aversions, we’ve seen it all. So, grab a cuppa, and let’s chat about what’s worked (and what hasn’t) in our household.
The Ever-Changing Food Preferences
Both of my boys have gone through their own unique food journeys. There was a time when they were all about meat, and then suddenly, they decided to go vegan. My older son, especially in the last six months, has become quite the selective eater. He prefers his food plain—no sauces, no mixing, just simple and separate.
His staples? Apples, cucumbers, and strawberries. Occasionally, he’ll have a phase where he’s into peanut butter on toast, eggs, chicken, or meatballs—but again, each item on its own, not mixed into a meal.
Our Mealtime Approach
We keep things flexible around here. While I prepare meals at regular times, the boys are free to eat when they’re hungry. Snacks and fruits are always available and within reach, promoting independence and reducing mealtime battles.
Given our diverse dietary preferences—I'm vegan, my partner isn't, and the boys have their own tastes—we often have variations of meals. This approach respects everyone's choices and reduces stress around food.
Strategies That Work for Us
1. Offer Choices Within Limits
Providing options empowers children and reduces resistance. For example, asking, "Would you like cucumber or carrot sticks?" gives them control while ensuring they eat something nutritious.
2. Serve Familiar Foods with New Ones
Introducing new foods alongside favorites can increase acceptance. I often place a small portion of a new food next to something my child enjoys, without making a fuss about it. This low-pressure approach encourages exploration.
3. Involve Kids in Meal Preparation
Children are more likely to try foods they've helped prepare. My boys enjoy washing vegetables, stirring ingredients, and assembling their plates. This involvement makes them more interested in the food they eat.
4. Respect Their Appetites
I’ve learned to trust my boys' hunger cues. If they’re not hungry, I don’t force them to eat. Instead, I remind them that they can eat when they’re ready and ensure healthy options are available when they are.
5. Avoid Pressure and Keep Mealtimes Positive
Forcing kids to eat can backfire. I’ve found that keeping mealtimes relaxed and pressure-free encourages better eating habits. If they refuse a food, I simply offer it again another time without making a big deal.
Dealing with Nutritional Concerns
Like many parents, I worry about my children's nutrition, especially when they’re being selective. To address this, we've made some changes:
Upgraded Snacks: We've replaced less nutritious snacks with options higher in fiber and protein.
Regular Monitoring: We're getting blood work done to check for any deficiencies and determine if supplementation is needed.
Balanced Plates: Even if foods are served separately, I ensure there's a balance of fruits, vegetables, proteins, carbs, and healthy fats.
Top 3 Tips for Fellow Parents
Work with Your Child, Not Against Them: Understand their preferences and involve them in food choices.
Provide Healthy Options: Keep nutritious snacks accessible so they can make good choices independently.
Be Patient and Keep Trying: Introduce new foods without pressure and celebrate small victories.
Final Thoughts
Picky eating is a phase many children go through. It can be challenging, but with patience, flexibility, and a positive approach, it becomes manageable. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and it's okay to seek support and share experiences with other parents.