my child age is one and off year not eating wt I do

Question

my child age is one and off year  not eating wt I do

Accepted Answer

It can be worrying when your one-and-a-half-year-old child refuses to eat, but this is not uncommon at this age. Toddlers are often picky eaters, and their eating habits can fluctuate. Here are some strategies you can try to encourage your child to eat:

1. Offer a Variety of Foods Toddlers are often more willing to eat if they have different types of food to choose from. Offer a variety of fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, and dairy. Sometimes, they may reject one food but accept another. Make meals colorful and fun by cutting foods into shapes or making them visually appealing. 2. Stick to Regular Meal Times Toddlers thrive on routine. Try to offer meals and snacks at the same times each day, so your child knows when to expect food. Limit snacks in between meals to avoid spoiling their appetite. 3. Serve Small Portions Sometimes, large portions can overwhelm a toddler. Start with small portions and allow them to ask for more if they're still hungry. Toddlers often like to have control, so letting them pick what they want from the food can make them more interested. 4. Make Mealtime Relaxing and Positive Try to make mealtime a pleasant experience without pressuring your child to eat. Avoid distractions like TV or mobile phones during meals. Eating together as a family can encourage your child to model your eating habits. 5. Incorporate Foods They Like If there are certain foods your child enjoys, incorporate them into meals. For example, if they love fruits, add some fruit to their breakfast or mix it into yogurt. 6. Offer Finger Foods Toddlers love to explore food on their own. Offering finger foods like small pieces of fruit, veggies, or crackers can make mealtime more engaging for them. 7. Be Patient with New Foods Toddlers may need to be offered a new food several times before they accept it. Keep trying different foods, but don’t force it. If they reject it once, try again later. 8. Ensure Adequate Fluids If your child is refusing solid foods, make sure they are drinking enough fluids, such as water, milk, or diluted fruit juices, to stay hydrated. 9. Check for Medical Issues If your child’s refusal to eat is accompanied by signs of illness (such as fever, vomiting, or diarrhea) or if you notice a significant drop in weight, it’s important to consult a pediatrician to rule out any underlying health issues like teething, infections, or digestive problems. 10. Consider Supplements If you're concerned about nutritional intake, ask your pediatrician about multivitamins or other supplements that can help ensure your child is getting the right nutrients. When to Seek Medical Help

If your child’s refusal to eat is persistent, or if you notice significant weight loss, lack of energy, or other concerning symptoms, it's best to consult with your pediatrician or a nutritionist to rule out any underlying health concerns and get more targeted advice.

Remember, it's common for toddlers to go through phases of picky eating, and with some patience and creativity, you can encourage them to eat better over time.