by Franchesca Bisignano

Created on: June 08, 2009

A toddler just like every other person has likes and dislikes this along with a toddler's dislike of change can make introducing new foods difficult. There are some simple ways to introduce new foods to your toddler.

It is important to introduce a food to your toddler at least 3 separate times. Toddlers are picky and their tastes change over time. Something your toddler loves today maybe something they hate tomorrow. Introduce a food once if they are not interested in it wait at least a week before trying it again. If you have introduced the food a few times and your toddler still does not like the food put it away for a month or two and then you can try it again. If they don't like the food after you have tried it a few times it may just be a food they do not like. Your child will not like everything which is normal.

Do not force your toddler to eat anything. Simply place the new food on the plate next to some familiar foods. Allow your toddler to try each new food on their own time. If a child is forced to try food they will automatically not like them. Trying to bribe your toddler to try a new food is not a good idea. If you bribe your toddler to try a new food they will begin to expect a reward each time that food is on their plate. It is best to allow your toddler to try the food on their own.

A great way to get your toddler to try new food is to eat it yourself. Toddlers are more likely to try a new food if they see their parents eating it also. You are your toddler's role model they want to mock what you are doing. You should not expect your toddler to eat a food that you will not eat yourself.

Your toddler will try new foods in time. Do not force them to eat the new foods that will just hinder the process. It will be a slow process when introducing new food. If you are patient and slowly introduce the new foods without being forceful about them trying it will be a much easier transition. If your toddler does not like a food it may change over time. A toddler will soon develop a taste for some food and a dislike for others which will go along with their personality. Do not worry if your toddler is hesitant to try new foods that is normal. You should not stress about your toddler eating new foods. The more you push the more your toddler will resist the change. Slowly introduce the new change and it should go smoothly.

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