Fussy babies and toddlers can make mealtimes difficult. It’s not easy when everything you offer is wrong, even foods that were loved the day before. It’s made even more difficult when they can’t tell you what they like and don’t like, or why. These tips can help you deal with your fussy eater, without feeling like you’re losing a battle.

Restrain Your Stress

Try not to get stressed when your baby refuses food. Your baby will probably sense your stress and negativity. If your baby sees you becoming upset then it can become a negative cycle. If you feel yourself getting stressed, pack up, take a break, and try again when you and your baby are feeling more calm, and collected.

Keep Trying

Babies don’t have developed tastebuds, and it can take up to 10 attempts at a food before they begin to enjoy it. Keep trying and encouraging your child to at least taste new, healthy foods.

Routine

If you keep mealtimes to a similar time every day and only offer healthy, light snacks between. This means that they will be hungry when it’s time for meals.

Eat Together

Kids learn by imitating others, so eat with them. You can make food more fun, by turning a pizza or fruit platter into a smiley face, letting them eat themselves, and enjoying the social interaction of eating with the grown-ups.

Remain Calm

Parents, especially new parents, can panic when their babies refuse to eat. You need to try to remain calm and don’t panic. You are not the first parent with a fussy eater, and you won’t be the last. Your child won’t let themselves go hungry. Focus on making meals a positive experience, with quality time and a calm parent, instead of thinking that you’re doing anything wrong. You’re not.

It can take time to establish a new routine, and figure out your baby’s preferences, but the tips shared above can help you deal even with the most fussy eater.