Supporting Picky Eaters at the Family Table

Explore common approaches for managing mealtime resistance while fostering a positive relationship with food for children.

1. The Division of Responsibility. Many pediatric nutrition experts advocate for the 'Division of Responsibility' in feeding. In this model, the parent is responsible for what, when, and where food is served, while the child is responsible for whether they eat and how much. This approach aims to remove the pressure from the child, which can sometimes reduce mealtime anxiety. Parents who adopt this approach often find that by consistently offering a variety of foods—including at least one 'safe' item the child is known to eat—the child may eventually become more curious about other options without the need for coaxing or pressure.
2. Managing Expectations and Exposure. Research suggests that it can take many exposures to a new food before a child chooses to taste it, let alone enjoy it. Rather than expecting a child to finish a full serving, some families find success in serving 'micro-portions' of new foods alongside familiar favorites. Another strategy involves involving children in the process of meal preparation. Whether it is washing vegetables or choosing a fruit at the grocery store, some children feel more inclined to try a food they have had a hand in selecting or preparing. This shifts the focus from the consumption of the food to the experience of cooking and discovery.