#asktheexpert my baby is not eating veggies

A. It's not uncommon for toddlers to be picky eaters, especially when it comes to vegetables. Here are a few tips to encourage your toddler to eat more vegetables: 1. Lead by Example: Eat vegetables yourself and let your toddler see you enjoying them. Children often mimic the behavior of adults. 2. Offer a Variety: Present a variety of vegetables in different colors, shapes, and textures. Offer both raw and cooked options to see what your toddler prefers. 3. Be Creative: Incorporate vegetables into dishes your toddler already enjoys, such as adding grated carrots to pasta sauce or blending vegetables into smoothies. 4. Make it Fun: Cut vegetables into fun shapes, create colorful vegetable platters, or involve your toddler in meal preparation by letting them help wash or stir vegetables. 5. Set a Positive Environment: Offer vegetables without pressure or coercion. Encourage but don't force your toddler to try them. Praise and reward small steps and successes. 6. Keep Trying: It can take multiple exposures to a new food before a child accepts it, so continue offering vegetables regularly even if your toddler initially rejects them. 7. Be Patient: Remember that picky eating is often a phase that many children go through. Stay patient and persistent in offering vegetables, and eventually, your toddler may develop a taste for them. If you're concerned about your toddler's nutrition, consult with a pediatrician or a registered dietitian for personalized advice and guidance.