How to cope with fussy eaters can be a nightmare if you have a child who refuses to eat anything healthy. Picky children are often joined by picky adults. Gluten allergies are real, but you also have those who pretend they are gluten intolerant to lose weight, when they are not. Years ago, most of us just ate what was put in front of us. Often it’s because as ‘outdoor children’ we had healthy appetites and not much money.
You have to of course respect allergies and ethics, but a little gentle discipline about ensuring children eat their dinner, may be better than molly-cuddling children who want to eat burgers and crisps all day. And the screaming behaviour sometimes could be linked to the junk food consumed. In France and Italy, food is celebrated (there are no ‘children’s menus’ in pubs, youngsters just eat smaller portions). It’s rare for them to have tantrums at the table. Our European friends don’t watch their mothers tot up food points or count calories.
Grapefruit & green veggies can affect some medicines. No nuts, seeds or nut/seed butters for young children. Cut carrot sticks/veggie hot dogs lengthwise then again, to avoid choking. Choose palm-oil-free vegan butters. See foods to keep away from pets.
- Fussy Flamingo is a children’s book for fussy eaters. Lola the flamingo will not eat shrimp, as she thinks it’s yucky. But she soon learns that if she doesn’t eat it, her feathers won’t turn pink.
- Juice fresh fruits into lolly moulds and freeze.
- Veggie Desserts & Cakes contains recipes with hidden veg like Kale & Apple Cake, Butternut Squash Spiced Muffins, Carrot & Orange Ice Lollies & Black Bean Chocolate Brownies.
- Children who play outdoors build up appetites.
- Teach your child to cook. Children don’t have to use knives, just help with peeling fruits etc. They will be more interested in food.
- Unless there is a serious blood sugar issue, forget about modern grazing. Feed three proper meals a day.
- Also see how to make or buy good baby food.
