Coping with a fussy eater

Set regular mealtimes. Routine is reassuring for young children.

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Large portions can be overwhelming. Keep it small and offer more later.

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Use colours and shapes to make the food fun and attractive.

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Try to make mealtimes fun by letting your toddler help with meal prep or chatting with them about the colours and textures of the food.

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Be positive. Praise your toddler when they’re eating well, don’t criticise or punish when not.

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Try to offer new tastes gradually. One at a time and in small amounts.

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Try not to rush mealtimes as some toddlers eat very slowly.

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Try to eat together as a family. Toddlers learn just as much by watching what you do, from table manners to savouring food and trying different things.

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Encourage them to feed themselves, it might help finger foods be accepted more easily. You can deal with the mess later.

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