Eat! Don’t pick – A better way of saying that

Alice came home later than usual expecting her children to be fast asleep. But walking in, Alice met frustration written all over her house help’s face. Beside her was one of her sons, Sam, with a bowl full of untouched food. For Sam, the word ‘food’ was enough for him to throw a tantrum that would raise the neighbours’ concern. Not even his dad’s threat for a good old spanking could do the trick.

Research shows that about 50 per cent of kids under the age of six are picky eaters.

Six reasons they picky eat
• Bowel or digestive problems. These need medical attention

• Jaundice—especially if your child has always had a good appetite and suddenly becomes picky.

• Snacks or meals consumed elsewhere. This leaves no room for homemade meals

• Stress caused by school work, bullies or any other tension

• Hormonal changes—as they grow

• Attention seeking—This happens if the parents are very pre-occupied by duty or a new baby.

Signs of a picky eater

• Loss of weight.

• Difficulty in chewing or swallowing.

• Excessive drooling or gagging with meals.

• Vomiting after meals.

• Completely refuses to eat or drink.

Making her eat

Assuming your child has no medical condition, here are some tips to get your young one to eat.

Set a good example. If you eat a balanced diet, your child is more likely to follow suit and get used to that.

Be patient with your child. Don’t let meal time become a power struggle; as your child is likely to rebel or fear you once you become more domineering.

Involve them. Let your child help in preparation of meals by giving their suggestions on what is to be cooked. You can also take them with you for grocery shopping and let them pick out some fruits and veggies. That way, they will be more interested in eating the final product.

Give the right amount. Understand that the amount of food intake varies from one child to another; depending on age and activity of the child. Ask your doctor the amount of calories that your child should consume in a day.

Give choices on what to eat at meal time and explain to her that snacks and meals need to be of nutritional value. You can also cut fruits and vegetables into finger-like strips or other shapes, to make it more fun for her to eat.

Be creative. Rename foods or use different plates or spoons that are child friendly. You can also garnish foods like vegetable and fruit salads to encourage your child to eat. Moreover, mix fruits and veggies and make tasty health drinks. Give your child enough variety at meal time.

Minimize distractions by turning off the television or removing books or toys from the table—to allow her to give his attention to food.

Reward good behaviour. When they finish their food, you can allow limited healthy snacking, before the next meal.

Set and keep rules. For instance: No reward for food not eaten. A little firmness will increase her intake without her knowledge, and before she knows it, she will be an eater—not a picker.

END:BL29/22