#asktheexperts Hello mam My son is not taking proper meal from past 4-5 days. He has stopped eating fruits also. What could be the possible reason. Should I give him time or force him to eat?

A. A sudden change in eating habits in children can happen due to various reasons, including teething, illness, stress, or simply a temporary lack of appetite. Here’s how you can approach the situation: 1. Observe for Signs of Illness: Check if your son has a fever, sore throat, stomach upset, or teething discomfort that might be affecting his appetite. 2. Don’t Force-Feed: Forcing can create a negative association with food. Instead, encourage him by offering small portions of his favorite foods in a relaxed environment. 3. Provide Variety: Offer different textures and colors of food to make meals more appealing. 4. Hydration is Key: Ensure he stays hydrated with water or healthy fluids like coconut water or soups. 5. Be Patient: Temporary food refusal is common in children. Give him some time, and he’ll likely return to his regular eating habits.