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Vegetation in the forest could keep one alive or bring on death. Toddlers have a natural instinct left over from the primal period that ensures they will not eat poisonous foods found in the forest. This instinct steers the child clear from sour or bitter tasting foods. In todays society often time children survive on macaroni and cheese, fries with a side of ketchup, cereal or peanut butter sandwiches. What do those carbohydrate laden foods have in common? They are bland and tasteless, unlike various vegetables that are interpreted to be bitter by the toddlers taste sensory.

To bring healthier eating into the toddlers' diet, I offer a few suggestions below:

Mask the vegetables flavor adding mild spices, covering in melted cheese or drizzling with olive oil (might as well start them off on the good oils).

Set standard meal times each day so the child learns that this is meal time.

Turn off distractions (TV) and don't allow toys to be brought to the table.

Have the family and/or yourself sit down to eat with them, eating the same foods.

Do not obsess if they do not eat what you have offered, no bribing and no snacks or juices directly after they have not eaten their meal. They will begin to expect this not eating meals behavior and being rewarded with snacks.

Do not say that these foods are good for you; this is perceived as a negative at this age.

Offer various foods over and over; it may take repeated offers before they accept.

If possible allow them to choose the vegetables at the market and to help in the preparation of them.

Keep in mind they have a very small stomach and it's about the size of their fist.

Provide your child with a multivitamin to ensure they are getting all the necessary nutrients for growth.

Use pureed vegetables as an added ingredient in your meals recipes.

Most children grow out of this behavior and it is imperative to not make a huge scene about their lack of eating what you serve. You do not want the child to develop eating disorders. My nephew is 17 and still relies on his mac and cheese, and cereal for his main meals. He is learning to eat fries that are not from McDonalds, especially when he is out with friends. Sometimes peer pressure is a good thing. For myself, my mother never made me anything different then what was served to the rest of the family at meal time but she did ensure there was corn or apple sauce served at every meal for me.

Learn more about this author, Arlene Mae.
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