POOJA KOTHARIMom of a 8 yr 6 m old boy1 Year agoA. Increasing the appetite of a 14-month-old baby who is not eating properly can be challenging. Here are some strategies to encourage better eating habits:
### **1. Create a Routine:**
- **Regular Meal Times**: Establish consistent times for meals and snacks to help regulate hunger.
- **Limit Snacks**: Avoid too many snacks between meals to ensure the baby is hungry at meal times.
### **2. Offer Variety:**
- **Different Foods**: Introduce a variety of foods with different textures, colors, and flavors to make meals more interesting.
- **Small Portions**: Offer small portions to avoid overwhelming the child, and allow for second helpings if desired.
### **3. Make Meals Fun:**
- **Colorful Plates**: Use colorful and attractive plates and utensils.
- **Food Shapes**: Cut foods into fun shapes using cookie cutters.
### **4. Lead by Example:**
- **Family Meals**: Eat together as a family to model good eating habits.
- **Healthy Choices**: Show enthusiasm for healthy foods and let your child see you enjoying them.
### **5. Involve Your Child:**
- **Cooking Together**: Let your child help with simple tasks in the kitchen to increase interest in meals.
- **Grocery Shopping**: Take your child shopping and let them choose some healthy foods.
### **6. Be Patient and Persistent:**
- **Avoid Force-Feeding**: Encourage but do not force your child to eat.
- **Stay Calm**: Keep mealtime stress-free and avoid pressuring your child to eat more.
### **7. Healthy Snacks:**
- **Nutritious Choices**: Offer healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, cheese, yogurt, and whole-grain crackers.
- **Limit Unhealthy Foods**: Avoid sugary snacks and drinks that can reduce appetite for nutritious meals.
### **8. Hydration:**
- **Water**: Ensure your child is drinking enough water, but not too much before meals.
### **9. Monitor Health:**
- **Consult a Pediatrician**: If poor appetite persists, consult a pediatrician to rule out any underlying health issues such as anemia, allergies, or digestive problems.
### **10. Create a Positive Environment:**
- **Pleasant Atmosphere**: Make mealtime a pleasant experience with no distractions like TV or toys.
- **Praise**: Give positive reinforcement when your child tries new foods or eats well.
### **Foods to Encourage Appetite:**
- **Finger Foods**: Offer finger foods that are easy to handle, such as small pieces of steamed vegetables, fruits, cheese cubes, and whole-grain crackers.
- **Nutrient-Dense Options**: Include nutrient-dense foods like avocados, sweet potatoes, and yogurt.
Remember, every child is different, and it may take time to find what works best for your child. Consistency and patience are key. If you continue to have concerns, consulting with a pediatric nutritionist can provide additional personalized strategies.
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