My child does not eat roti and sabzi ...how can i teachbhim please please pllease do advice a few steps which can help me #asktheexpert

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Accepted Answer

Encouraging a two-year-old child to eat roti and sabzi (bread and vegetables) can be a common challenge, as children at this age often exhibit preferences for certain foods. Here are some strategies to help make mealtimes more appealing and encourage healthy eating habits:

1. **Be Patient:** It's normal for toddlers to be selective eaters. Keep offering roti and sabzi, even if your child initially refuses them.

2. **Variety:** Offer a variety of vegetables and incorporate them creatively into meals. Try different preparations, textures, and seasonings to make them more enticing.

3. **Role Modeling:** Eat meals together as a family and demonstrate enjoyment of roti and sabzi. Children often mimic the eating behaviors of adults.

4. **Small Portions:** Serve small portions to avoid overwhelming your child. You can gradually increase the serving size as their acceptance grows.

5. **Presentation:** Make the food visually appealing. Use colorful vegetables, interesting shapes, and arrange them attractively on the plate.

6. **Dips and Sauces:** Offer a mild and healthy dip or sauce, like yogurt or a tomato-based sauce, for dipping roti or for dressing the sabzi.

7. **Positive Reinforcement:** Praise your child when they try new foods or eat well. Encourage their efforts and acknowledge their preferences.

8. **Consistency:** Maintain a regular meal schedule to establish a routine for mealtimes.

9. **Avoid Pressure:** Don't force your child to eat. Forcing can lead to resistance. Instead, provide choices and allow them to decide how much they want to eat.

10. **Involve Your Child:** Let your child participate in meal preparation, like tearing roti into pieces or washing vegetables. This can make them more interested in eating the final product.

11. **Be Patient and Persistent:** It can take several exposures to a new food before a child accepts it. Don't give up after the first rejection.

Remember that every child is unique, and it's normal for their preferences to evolve over time. If you have concerns about your child's eating habits, consult with a pediatrician or a pediatric nutritionist for personalized guidance and advice.