#asktheexpert hello mam, my baby is 1yr and 6 months old.she is not eating anything so what will I do?

Question

Accepted Answer

It's not uncommon for toddlers to go through phases where they become picky eaters or have reduced appetite. Here are some strategies to encourage your 18-month-old to eat:

1. **Establish a Routine**: Serve meals and snacks at the same times each day to create a predictable eating schedule.

2. **Offer a Variety of Foods**: Introduce different foods with varying textures, colors, and flavors. Toddlers often need to be exposed to new foods multiple times before they accept them.

3. **Make Meals Fun**: Use colorful plates and utensils, cut food into fun shapes, or create playful presentations to make eating more appealing.

4. **Small Portions**: Serve small portions to avoid overwhelming your child. You can always offer more if they finish the initial serving.

5. **Family Meals**: Eat together as a family to model good eating habits. Seeing parents and siblings enjoy a variety of foods can encourage your child to try them.

6. **Limit Distractions**: Turn off the TV and remove toys or other distractions during mealtime to help your child focus on eating.

7. **Healthy Snacks**: Offer healthy snacks like fruit, vegetables, cheese, or yogurt between meals if your child refuses to eat at mealtime. Avoid filling them up with milk or juice.

8. **Be Patient**: Avoid pressuring or forcing your child to eat. Keep offering a variety of foods, even if they are rejected at first.

9. **Involve Your Child**: Let your toddler help with meal preparation. They can wash vegetables, stir ingredients, or choose between two healthy options. This involvement can make them more interested in eating the food.

10. **Stay Calm**: Keep mealtimes positive and stress-free. Avoid turning meals into a battle, as this can create negative associations with eating.

If your child's lack of appetite persists or if you're concerned about their growth and development, it’s important to consult with a pediatrician. They can assess for any underlying health issues and provide personalized advice.