Mealtimes can be the source of much tension between toddlers and their parents. Toddlers can refuse to eat altogether, eat too much or refuse to eat anything but macaroni and cheese for weeks on end, all of which can be very frustrating for parents. Fortunately, with some exceptions, most toddler feeding problems are psychological and can be solved if parents are patient and try to establish regular mealtimes and serve healthy foods.
Toddlers Who Undereat
Many parents are concerned when their children make the transition from babies to toddlers and slow down the pace at which they eat. This decrease in appetite is normal, since toddlers grow at a slower pace than babies and need fewer calories. Still, this trend can be concerning to many parents, who in turn may threaten or punish their children in an attempt to get them to eat. In turn, this can turn into a cycle where the children may become anxious at mealtime and develop a psychological block that makes them reluctant to eat. Parents who are experiencing this problem should try to cut the tension at mealtimes and create a more relaxed family atmosphere that is free of distractions so that everyone feels comfortable and ready to eat.
Toddlers Who Overeat
Some parents are concerned that their toddlers eat too much and may be on the road toward childhood obesity. This can be a legitimate concern and should be addressed, since obesity can cause medical problems such as diabetes, heart disease and early puberty as well as psychological and self-esteem problems. The best way to avoid obesity is to let a toddler eat when he is hungry, but provide healthy foods and balanced meals while avoiding high-fat junk food. If a toddler still seems to be gorging himself or overeating, the entire family should make an effort to slow down meals, eat at a more leisurely pace and create a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere at mealtimes.
Picky Toddlers
Another feeding problem comes when toddlers are hungry and want to eat, but they only want to eat certain foods. Toddlers are notoriously fickle when it comes to eating and as long as the food that they fixate on is not unhealthy, picky eating is not a serious problem. If parents allow their children to choose the foods they eat but restrict the choices to nutritious options, the toddler's picky eating habits will not affect his overall health. If the child does not seem to be getting a full range of nutrients, parents may offer a vitamin supplement to fill in the gaps.
Physical Feeding and Swallowing Problems
While most common toddler feeding problems are psychological, there are cases where the child may have a physical problem that interrupts feeding. Children who refuse food, arch their backs when being fed, or gag and cough when eating may suffer from dysphagia, a catch-all term that refers to swallowing disorders in children. Children suspected of suffering from dysphagia should consult a physician, as the disorder can lead to serious dehydration and malnutrition. Dysphagia can be treated in a variety of ways, depending on the root cause of the swallowing problem.
