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what is or is not appealing to them, and they should never be criticized over the fact that they have an honest dislike of certain foods. While it is perfectly within your parental rights to require that your child try a new or unfamiliar food, you also must respect the fact that the food item does not agree with your child's palate. Therefore, the better alternative is to simply let it go, and concentrate your efforts on discovering a food that may be more pleasing to your child's personal taste preferences. Also, it is important to refrain from denying children a dessert or bedtime snack because they may not have completely finished their meals. Along the same lines, you should not use bribery of any sort in relation to food. Children of all ages instinctively know when they are full, and it is not appropriate to demand that a child join the "Clean Plate Club". It can be frustrating for parents when children do not finish their meals, and then claim an hour or so later that they are hungry, but a child should never be denied food. Instead, offer your child a healthy snack that will be satisfying and filling.

~ Ensure that your child is taking a daily multivitamin.

The easiest way to diminish the concern you may be feeling regarding your child's picky eating habits is to be sure that he or she is taking a daily multivitamin. Also, if your child is lacking any of the necessary vitamins and minerals he or she requires because certain foods are being avoided, then a multivitamin can help to provide him or her with the recommended daily allowance.

In conclusion, picky eating is typically just a phase that many children will go through in their young lives. Usually, as children grow, they become accustomed to, and develop a taste for, foods that were once highly disagreeable to them. Nevertheless, if your child's eating habits are causing weight loss or other serious concerns, then it would be wise to consult his or her pediatrician.

Learn more about this author, Mary Ann Rudy.
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