Does your toddler turn up their nose at anything that isn’t macaroni and cheese? Do they refuse to eat vegetables — or worse, throw them onto the floor? You’re not alone.
Picky eating is a common phase for toddlers. And while it can be frustrating, it’s usually a normal part of development. Our team at Laurel Pediatric & Teen Medical Center helps you understand why toddlers are often picky eaters and what they need to eat.
We specialize in pediatric care at our Bel Air, Maryland, office. Here’s why picky eating is normal and what you can do to encourage your child to try and enjoy a wider variety of foods.
As frustrating as it can be for parents, being picky is part of being a toddler. Toddlers are naturally cautious about new experiences, and that includes trying new foods.
This wariness is part of their developmental process and helps protect them as they explore the world. A few factors can contribute to picky eating in toddlers:
Toddlers’ growth rates slow down compared to infancy, which means they may need less food, and their appetite can become more erratic.
At this stage, toddlers are learning to assert their independence. Refusing food can be a way to exercise control.
Toddlers may naturally prefer sweet and bland foods and have an aversion to bitter or strong flavors.
Some toddlers are sensitive to the textures of foods and may refuse anything that feels unfamiliar or unappealing in their mouths.
Despite their picky tendencies, toddlers must receive adequate nutrition. If you’re worried your toddler’s nutritional needs aren’t being met, we can help.
Toddlers should eat a variety of proteins, grains, dairy, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables. Proteins are essential for growth and development. Good sources include lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, beans, and tofu.
Whole grains like oatmeal, brown rice, and wheat bread provide sustained energy and fiber. Dairy is good for bone development, and options include milk, cheese, and yogurt. If your toddler is dairy-free, ask our team about nutritional alternatives.
Healthy fats boost brain development. Good sources include avocados, age-appropriate nuts, and olive oil. And finally, fruits and vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. Offer a variety of colors and types to cover a range of nutrients.
For many children, picky eating is a phase that goes away with time. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t introduce new foods now. We have strategies to help make the process more successful and less frustrating.
First and foremost, be patient and persistent. It may take several attempts before your toddler accepts a new food. Continue to offer it without pressure or frustration, and make it a priority to avoid food battles.
Forcing a child to eat can create negative associations with food, so encourage them to try new foods but don’t make mealtime stressful.
Create a routine and stick to it. Regular meal and snack times can help regulate your toddler’s appetite. Plus, children are more likely to try new foods if they see their parents and siblings eating them. Make mealtime a family affair with everyone eating the same foods.
Instead of sticking to the same few meals, introduce a wide variety of foods. Even if your toddler doesn’t eat everything, exposure is key. Present new foods in fun shapes or involve your child in meal preparation.
If they resist eating vegetables, sneak them in by adding finely chopped veggies to sauces, smoothies, or muffins.
Picky toddlers are frustrating, but it’s normal. Remember that persistence and patience are key — and if you have ongoing concerns about your child’s eating habits or nutritional intake, schedule a consultation with our team at Laurel Pediatric & Teen Medical Center.
Call us at 410-504-6406 or request an appointment online today.
