Does your child pick on food? See how to turn a child who's a food picker to a "food lover" using these healthy tips to boost their appetites.

Mealtime battles is a common phenomenon in many households with toddlers. The tears, tantrums, and frustration can be overwhelming for moms who want the best for their children. But have you ever stopped to think about the psychological effects of picky eating on mothers and the potential long-term health consequences for kids? 

In this blog, we'll explore the ways to boost a child's appetite and turn him from a food picker to a food packer. Keep reading!

Here are some factors that could contribute to a child being a picky eater.

▪︎ Poor food Presentation:

Children are often drawn to foods that look appealing. If the food doesn't look appetizing or is presented in an unappealing way, they might be less likely to try it.

▪︎ Colour: Kids love bright colours. If the food lacks vibrant colors, it might not capture their attention. Thus, they wouldn't want to try it. 

▪︎ Texture : Some kids might be put off by certain textures, such as mushy or slimy foods, and even without bothering to taste it, would immediately reject the food.

▪︎ Improper food arrangement: The way food is arranged on the plate can make a difference. Kids might enjoy foods that are cut into fun shapes or arranged in a creative way. 

▪︎ Food neophobia: Some children might be naturally more cautious when trying new foods.

▪︎ Sensory sensitivities: Certain textures, smells, or tastes can be overwhelming for some kids.

▪︎ Role modelling: Kids often mimic adults' eating habits, so if parents are picky eaters, kids might follow suit. Remember, they learn by imitation 

▪︎ Developmental stage:  Toddlers might go through phases where they're more finicky about food due to their developmental stage.

Boost their appetite with these healthy tips

▪︎ Make mealtime fun: Use fun shapes and colours to make mealtime more engaging. You can also put their favourite Caton characters for them to watch while they enjoy the food. It doesn't matter if he's sitting at a place or not at this stage. Let him eat first.

▪︎ Try and involve the kids in cooking: You should allow them to sometimes, help with meal preparations, such as washing vegetables.

▪︎ Offer a variety: Expose the kids to different foods and presentation styles to encourage exploration. This would make them want to try this food that's presented in a beautiful way, thus improving their overall appetites. 

There's every possibility of a child who doesn't like meat to like foods made with meat and meat products, and that's where varieties come in. Try out new dishes using the same staple foods he doesn't eat. You may be surprised to see him eat other foods made from that same staple food he's rejecting. 

For example; my son doesn't like beans, but he eats moi-moi, a food made from beans, the only difference between the two foods is that beans is eaten while still being a seed while moi-moi is crushed beans, which turns into a pudding!

You can even change their previous plates and cutlery to newer ones that have their favourite catoon characters drawn on them. Imagine how excited they would be to eat with such plates and cutlery!

▪︎ Finally and most importantly; patience: It can take multiple attempts for kids to develop a taste for new foods, so you will have to keep trying, and with these tips, you would have positive story to tell about your child.

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