my son doesn't eat food properly in whole day it takes very little amount of food and not takes feeder

Question

my  son doesn't eat food properly in whole day it takes very little amount of food and not takes feeder

Accepted Answer

It's common for toddlers to have varying appetites, and they may not always eat as much as you'd like. Here are some tips to help encourage your son to eat more and maintain a balanced diet:

1. Offer Small, Frequent Meals:

Instead of forcing three large meals, try offering smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. Toddlers often have smaller stomachs and may be more willing to eat when they don't feel overwhelmed by large portions.

2. Make Food Fun and Appealing:

Try different textures and colors to make the food visually interesting. For example, cut fruits and vegetables into fun shapes or use colorful plates.

Serve food in bite-sized pieces that are easy for him to pick up on his own (finger foods like small pieces of fruit, crackers, cheese, or cooked veggies).

3. Create a Routine:

Try to establish a regular mealtime routine. Offer meals at the same time every day and try to create a calm, relaxed environment during meals without distractions like TV or toys.

4. Limit Liquid Intake:

Sometimes toddlers fill up on liquids, which can reduce their appetite for solid food. If he’s drinking too much milk or juice, try reducing it to encourage him to eat more solid food.

5. Be Patient and Consistent:

It can take time for a child to develop a healthy eating routine. Keep offering a variety of foods without forcing him to eat. Avoid pressuring him to finish his plate, as this can create negative associations with mealtimes.

6. Let Him Be Independent:

Allow him to feed himself when possible. Even if he makes a mess, self-feeding encourages better eating habits. You can also involve him in simple food prep tasks to make him feel more engaged with the process.

7. Offer Nutritious Snacks:

If he isn’t eating enough during meals, offer healthy snacks between meals, such as yogurt, fruit, or whole-grain crackers. You can also add healthy fats like avocado or peanut butter to boost calories.

8. Avoid Using the Feeder:

If your son is not taking a feeder, it’s fine to try a regular cup with a straw or a sippy cup, as long as he’s able to drink from it. You can also try spoon-feeding if he prefers that. Offer water or breast milk/formula in a cup to encourage self-feeding.

If his refusal to eat continues or you're concerned about his growth and development, it’s always a good idea to consult a pediatrician for guidance. They can check for any underlying issues and provide additional strategies.