In fact, a study of eating behaviour in young children found that up to 50% of parents consider their children to be picky eaters (Figure 1). Another study found that picky eating persisted in some children through 9 years of age.¹

Picky eating can persist throughout the childhood years

Although picky-eating behaviours can be short-lived in some children, for others it remains an ongoing problem. In one study, 21% of children aged 4 and 5 years were identified as picky eaters by their parents. Another study found that picky eating persisted in some children through 9 years of age.

Typical behaviours of a fussy eater

A fussy eater often eats little. Another behaviour is that the child might only accept a few types of foods and refuse to eat fruits or vegetables. Your child might also reject new foods and disrupt or prolong mealtimes.

Picky eaters may consume less protein and energy than non-picky eaters. In addition, picky eaters have also been shown to have a reduced intake of some vitamins and minerals compared with non-picky eaters.

Potential risks for a persistent fussy eater

A lower or unbalanced dietary intake. E.g. lower intake in fruits, vegetables and fibre may lead to a lower intake in important micronutrients. In turn, this may affect both growth and cognitive development of your child.

Tips for dealing with your fussy eater

Mealtimes should be relaxed and fun both for you and your family. This helps ensure that your child not only gets the nutrition she needs, but also brings you closer as a family.

• Step by step: Introduce only one new food at a time instead of serving a completely new meal. For example, if you want your child to eat unfamiliar or new food, try to introduce it with something familiar.
• Small to big: Serve small portion sizes when introducing new foods. Gradually move on to bigger portions.
• Be positive: Some children have negative associations with some foods. Try to alter the form and texture of that food to change the association into more positive ones. For instance, some foods remind children of ‘hospital food’ or ‘hotel food’ and they refuse to eat them.
• Make meals healthier: Try to improve the nutritive value of the food that your child enjoys. For instance, if your child likes pasta or pizza, try whole-wheat varieties and add vegetables. You may also add a slice of tomato or cheese to sandwiches, fruit to cereal or vegetables to pasta to increase the nutrient density of foods.
• Do not bribe: Resist giving your child sweets and fried foods to encourage him to eat. You may be doing more harm than good.
• Make mealtimes relaxed and fun: Avoid watching TV and other distractions that may lead to overeating or losing interest in food. Talk to your child about the day and share your own experiences so that your child looks forward to mealtimes.
• Encourage children as they grow: Encourage self-respect and self-acceptance. Never criticise a child’s body type.
• Involve your child: Involve the child in buying food by taking him to the supermarket or letting him choose the menu for 1 day a week. This not only teaches decision-making, but also increases involvement in the preparation of meals. Let your child set the table or help you clear it.
• Make a schedule: Serve meals at consistent intervals and times. Discourage eating at unscheduled times; work with your child to establish the mealtime schedule.
• Set a good example: Eat healthy foods with enthusiasm. Never talk about disliking healthy foods when your child is present.
• Educate your child: Look for opportunities to teach your child the benefits of healthy eating and an active lifestyle.
• Keep a watchful eye and stay calm: If you notice your child is preoccupied with being ‘thin’, introduce discussion of the hazards of eating disorders. If the problem persists, see a doctor.

Snacking

Healthy snacking is a good way to maintain interest in food, and at the same time provide good nutrition to your child between mealtimes. Good snacks for children include:

• Sandwiches with a variety of fillings
• Pasta or noodle dishes with interesting colours and shapes
• Sweet fruit yoghurts
• Popsicles made of fruit yoghurts and milk shakes
• Fruit juices
• Soups with vegetables
• Healthy fried rice with vegetables and lean meat

But remember, snacks are not a replacement to main meals!

How to know when your child is at risk

Talk to your child’s doctor about picky eating behaviours. This is especially important if your child:

• Loses or fails to gain weight
• Appears to be growing more slowly than normal
• Seems tired or lacks energy
• Has frequent illness or infections