Picky and Tricky eaters 

Q:How to deal with picky eaters and encourage healthy eating habits in children ?

Its a difficult task for the parents to make the children eat healthy food which gives them proper calories and proteins. Handling picky eaters is challenging. Consistency and good patience can help to introduce healthy eating habits in children. Here are some tips to help you:

Lead by example: Most of the children learn imitating their parents' eating habits. Parents should be a role model by demonstrating healthy eating habits yourself. Eat a variety of nutritious foods and show enthusiasm for trying new things.

Introduce a variety of foods: Start introducing a wide range of healthy foods to your child, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy products. Encourage them to try different flavors, textures, and colors. Make meals exciting by presenting food in creative ways.

Involve your child in meal planning and preparation: Involve your child in grocery shopping, meal planning, and cooking activities. Let them choose a new fruit or vegetable to try .Involve children in age-appropriate tasks in the kitchen. This involvement can increase their interest in trying new foods.

Create a positive eating environment: Make mealtimes social,pleasant and stress-free. Sit together as a family whenever possible, and avoid distractions like television or gadgets. Encourage conversation and make the atmosphere enjoyable.encourage children to eat of ther know.Provide seperate plate and spoon for the kid, so that they enjoy eating.Dont feed the child roaming around .

Serve small portions: Intially serve them small portions of food.,because  platefuls may discourage a picky eater. Once they are comfortable, increase the serving sizes gradually .

Encourage self-regulation: Make the child what his tummy needs not what mummy needs.Allow your child to listen to their own hunger and fullness cues. Don't force  to finish their plate or use food as a reward or punishment. Respect their preferences while encouraging them to try a variety of foods.

Be patient and persistent: It may take multiple exposures to a new food before a child accepts it. Don't give up after one rejection. Atleast try 15-20 times .Continue offering a variety of healthy options and be patient with their progress.

Make healthy snacks accessible: Avoid juck foods , always keep homemade healthy snacks  readily available at home , such as cut fruits, vegetable salads, yogurt, or mixed dry fruits . This makes it easier for your child to choose nutritious options when hunger strikes between meals.

Get creative with presentation: Make food visually appealing by arranging it in fun shapes or using colorful ingredients. Offer dips, sauces, or dressings to enhance the flavors. Encourage your child to participate in food art or create their own food designs.

Seek professional guidance if needed: If you're concerned about your child's nutrition or their extreme pickiness, consult a pediatrician or a registered dietitian who specializes in pediatric nutrition. They can provide tailored advice and guidance based on your child's specific needs.

To conclude it's important to be patient and consistent in encouraging healthy eating habits. By creating a positive and supportive food environment, offering a variety of nutritious options, and involving your child in the process, you can help them develop a healthier relationship with food over time.