Picky eating is a common issue that toddlers encounter. As they start to develop independence, they want to have control. This process can trigger picky eating behaviors.

Causes of children becoming picky eaters

Several things cause children to vote in terms of food, including:

Independence

As toddlers grow older, they learn about being in control and independent. They begin to understand that they control their and their parents' actions. This newfound control can sometimes manifest in a dislike for food.

When children refuse to eat, it can be a way for them to assert their independence and make decisions. Forcing them to eat what you choose may lead to more defiance. However, you can still offer the food alongside other options and encourage your child to try it. Additionally, providing a selection of healthy foods and letting your child choose what they want to eat can give them a sense of freedom and promote their overall health.

Skeptical of new foods

Children, especially toddlers, tend to prefer stability and the same routine. Unfortunately, the shape or color of food they see for the first time and are unfamiliar with can make children suspicious and reluctant to try it.

Introducing new foods can broaden your appetite and provide a variety of nutrients. However, his skepticism towards unfamiliar foods makes him seem to be a picky eater.

In this case, you can slowly combine a new food with his favorite food, until the child wants to try eating the new food. You don't need to force new foods, let your child accept and try the food himself.

Read more: Causes Of Pica In Children, Eating Objects That Are Not Food

Doesn't like strong flavors

When introducing the first solid foods, you may choose foods that do not have a strong taste for your child. However, you must introduce foods with broader flavors over time.

But remember that talking about food means talking about tastes, where everyone, including children, has their tastes in food. Some children like strong flavors, and some don't. Some children have more sensitive taste papillae so a strong taste can overwhelm the child.

Those who don't like strong flavors may be more accepting of the food being boiled or steamed. To make food more interesting, you can serve it more creatively.

Not hungry

Children may refuse food when they are not very hungry. Try to maintain a regular eating schedule, don't give snacks too close to main meal times, avoid giving food as a reward or punishment, and create fun meal times so your child doesn't get too stressed about food.

Read more: Teaching Children To Eat Vegetables, Here's How

Copying other people's attitudes

Remembering that children learn things from family members' examples or eating behavior is important. Eating with family members can create a positive environment regarding food and make children more interested in food.

Avoid making negative comments about food in front of the food, including denouncing or criticizing certain types of food. Introduce new foods slowly in small portions until they get used to the new taste and texture.

Children may also be picky eaters or refuse food when they are sick. Have your child checked and consulted with a doctor if they lose their appetite, suddenly become picky eaters, have nausea and vomiting, have a sore throat or headache, or look lethargic and unhealthy.

If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or use the consultation features available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

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