When you see a child eating carrots, broccoli, etc., you often wonder what makes other kids so fussy? This is a question that many parents often ask each other when they have to deal with a fussy eater. There are many reasons why a child can become a fussy eater. You can try different recipes for fussy eaters. However, you should keep some of these tips in mind to help you in understanding why your child is fussy about food.
Letting Kids Eat Junk
Many parents feel that giving their children junk food in moderation. However, you need to define what exactly is moderation. Avoid giving your child junk once a day or twice a week. But you can choose to give your child junk food once a month. While making this choice, you need to keep in mind that junk food has preservatives and unwanted fat that can be harmful to your child.
Not Saying No
Many parents give in to the tantrums thrown by their children to avoid eating what is given to them. This is one of the biggest reasons why a child becomes a fussy eater. When parents give in to their demands, children get a chance to choose what they want to eat rather than they should be eating. If you want your child to eat everything put on the table, then do not give in.
Cooking What Kids Like
Kids are choosy when it comes to eating healthy food. Hence, many parents prefer cooking what their children like rather than making an effort to give them something else. You can try some dinner recipes for kids that are easily available online to make sure that your child is eating everything.
Feeding Them on a Particular Time
It is good to have a schedule for meals. But many times, it can happen that your child is not hungry or had a particular meal late. Do not force your child to eat when he or she is not hungry. However, to ensure that they are eating their meals properly and on time, then you should avoid giving them heavy snacks or something to drink in between the meals. The hungry they are, the chances of them finishing their meal are high.
Banning Sweet Treats
Some parents take some harsh steps such as banning sweets or dessert for their children. Children often become more stubborn and refuse to eat what is given to them. Do not ban sweets, instead teach them how not to overeat them. You can set the number of candies or sweet treats they can have in a day. Trust your child so that he or she does not cheat and lie about it.
Not Starting at an Early Age
A child can develop the habit of eating everything if he or she is given what you want him or her to eat at an early age. Once a child develops a taste for a particular kind of food, getting him or her to eat beyond that can be challenging.
As a parent, it is your responsibility to ensure that your child eats everything and avoid dealing with a fussy eater.