How Do I Get My Child To Try New Foods?

Children, especially toddlers, are often wary of new food choices. However, experts at the Mayo Clinic say picky eaters aren't really a cause for concern. Most children get all the nutrition they need over the course of a week, even if they refuse new items at several meals. If you want your child to expand his diet, make the situation as low-pressure as possible for him.

Basic Diet

Most young children have a basic list of foods they favor. This is normal, and is not something that should concern you. Michelle LaRowe at Momtastic says many young children are picky because they are in control of what they eat for the first time. Establishing new favorites and expanding tastes usually takes several attempts. Unlike you, children are experiencing these new flavors and textures for the first time with little to compare then with, other than bland baby food. They must get accustomed to the new foods.

Preparation

Involving your children in food preparation may get them to try new things. Though it may take extra time, letting your child help you prepare a dish will give her the opportunity to handle the new foods and ask any questions about the ingredients. If she knows exactly what is in the food and how you prepare it, that knowledge may cultivate an interest strong enough to convince her to try it.

Serving

Serve the new food to your child, along with the other foods in the meal. Introduce only one new food per meal so he isn't overwhelmed by unfamiliar dishes. Leave it up to your child to decide how much he will eat. Small children often have unpredictable appetites, and forcing a meal or snack will ramp up their resistance to trying new things.

Routine

Routine is a key if you want your child to entertain the idea of trying new foods. Make sure your child eats three meals and two small snacks throughout the day. Serve each meal or snack at about the same time daily. Cut off snacks and milk at least an hour before mealtime so she will be hungry. If a child isn't hungry to begin with, she has no motivation to try new foods over familiar favorites.

Setting Examples

You cannot expect your child to try new foods if you won't eat them. Set a good example for him by eating a variety of healthy foods. At a meal, always eat the new food first. This will reassure your child the food tastes good and is worth trying.

Be Patient

Patience is very important when trying to expand your child's diet. Turning mealtime into a battle over trying new things will not be enjoyable or relaxing for you or your child. Casually offer new foods with no strings attached. Do not beg, threaten or bribe your child into trying new dishes. Kids usually come around, but if they feel pressured, they may never be willing to try new foods.