From 1 year and 8 months to 2 years of age, it is normal for the child to become more selective in eating. In fact, the thing is, he’s starting to express opinions – and he won’t always agree with you that it’s important to eat all the broccoli on his plate. In order not to turn mealtime into an endless session of scolding and tantrums, he tries to put these tips into practice:
1. Take a break
When you give your child a new food, offer a spoon or two or let him try a small amount on his own. If she doesn’t approve, don’t try to force her to eat. Wait a day or two and try again. Forcing the bar will cause the baby to become resistant to other flavors as well. Be happy that she is willing to try it. However, do not give up: every two days, on average, repeat the action.
2. Be the example
There is no point in feeding your baby watercress or green beans if you don’t even put these foods on his plate. The child learns by example – and from an early age. Good habits at the table must be cultivated by everyone, especially by parents and older children in the family.
3. Pay attention to the size
Don’t forget to cut some foods, such as meat, into small pieces. The baby’s initial refusal can be a sign of difficulty chewing and swallowing food.
4. Chair at the table
Instead of the high chair, get a special chair called a “booster” which can be placed on top of the normal chair. Therefore, the possibility of your child feeling “prestigious” for sitting at the table like everyone else can help improve nutrition.
5. Each in his place
Do not mix the food on the plate. Let the child taste colors, flavors, textures and identify which food it belongs to.
6. Well accompanied
Plates, cutlery and cups with your favorite characters give that extra dose of emotion so that the little one does not want to get up from the table so quickly.
7. Lively meal
Play with the presentation of the dish, forming drawings and “grimaces” with the food. This does not mean, however, masking or hiding something the child does not like: carrots, for example. This type of makeup does not help at all, on the contrary: it will only cause distrust and fear.
8. Look for substitutes
Keep in mind that no food is irreplaceable. Just because a child hates spinach doesn’t mean he can’t benefit from another vegetable’s vitamins. Talk to your pediatrician and find out what replacements you can make.
9. Don’t give up
Encouraging healthy eating is a complicated task in many cases. In some circumstances, you might consider letting go. It’s important not to give up easily: maintaining a varied menu leads to healthier eating habits throughout your life.
Keep offering him a variety of foods and hold back the urge to force him to eat. Set a good example and eat with pleasure, together with him, for those who know how to instill your child’s curiosity and interest.
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Source: Terra
Benjamin Smith is a fashion journalist and author at Gossipify, known for his coverage of the latest fashion trends and industry insights. He writes about clothing, shoes, accessories, and runway shows, providing in-depth analysis and unique perspectives. He’s respected for his ability to spot emerging designers and trends, and for providing practical fashion advice to readers.
