#asktheexpert

My kid pardhu is not eating food

Question

#asktheexpert

My kid pardhu is not eating food

Accepted Answer

It can be concerning when a child refuses to eat, especially if they are consistently not eating enough. There are several reasons why a child might avoid food, and understanding the cause can help you find solutions. Here are some tips to encourage your child to eat:

1. Check for Underlying Issues:

Health Problems: Sometimes, a medical issue like a sore throat, ear infection, or teething can make eating uncomfortable for a child. If your child shows signs of illness, a visit to the pediatrician can help rule out any health concerns.

Food Preferences or Sensitivities: Your child may not like the texture, taste, or temperature of certain foods. Keep trying different foods and observe their preferences.

2. Create a Positive Mealtime Environment:

Routine: Set regular meal times and offer food at those times, even if your child isn’t eating much. This consistency can help establish a sense of routine and hunger.

Minimize Distractions: Try to make mealtime a focused activity. Turn off the TV or any other distractions and focus on enjoying the food together. Eating together as a family can also help encourage positive eating habits.

3. Make Food Fun:

Offer Variety: Introduce a variety of colorful, fun foods like fruit shapes, vegetable sticks, or finger foods that your child can pick up and explore on their own.

Presentation: Sometimes presenting food in a different way (e.g., using fun shapes with cookie cutters) or serving it in a new dish can make it more appealing.

4. Offer Small Portions:

Large portions can overwhelm a toddler or young child. Instead, offer small, manageable portions and let them ask for more if they're still hungry.

Snack Time: Offer healthy snacks throughout the day, such as fruit, crackers, yogurt, or cheese, to help keep their energy up.

5. Make Food More Appealing:

Involve Them in Food Prep: Toddlers love being involved. Let them help you with simple tasks like washing vegetables or stirring. This can increase their interest in the food.

Add Dips: Some kids love dipping their food. Offer healthy dips like hummus, yogurt, or guacamole alongside vegetables or bread sticks.

6. Avoid Pressuring Your Child:

Don’t force your child to eat, as this can create negative associations with food. Encourage them gently, but allow them to have some control over what and when they eat.

7. Offer Nutrient-Rich Options:

High-Calorie, Nutritious Foods: If your child is refusing regular meals, focus on offering calorie-dense, nutrient-rich foods, like full-fat yogurt, avocado, eggs, cheese, and nut butters. These can help ensure they get important nutrients even in small amounts.

8. Be Patient:

Children often go through phases of being picky eaters or refusing food. It’s a normal part of their development. Continue to offer healthy options and maintain a calm and positive attitude around meals.

If your child’s refusal to eat continues or you are concerned about their weight or health, consult your pediatrician to rule out any medical concerns and get personalized advice.