by Bozena Hartley

Created on: June 23, 2009   Last Updated: August 24, 2009

Every parent has their patience tested on a regular basis, as their child starts every meal with the usual pitch: "I don't like broccoli, I want French fries!" "Not lasagna again, I hate lasagna! Blecch!" It can be very frustrating to feed a picky eater. If you have ever had to make two separate meals, one for the whole family and another one just for your young child, you are not alone. Eating is one of few areas where young children not only try, but also succeed at getting their way. There are many kids that used to eat anything when they were babies and now they won't eat any food, unless it looks like a hot dog or macaroni and cheese.

It is normal for kids to be picky. Being able to choose what they want to eat is important to them. That's how they assert their independence. Children usually refuse to eat unfamiliar food, the same way they reject anything else that isn't in their comfort zone. Also, their stomachs are much smaller than adults' and they naturally eat less, but more often. While parents think their child is being picky, he may simply be full.

The first years are very important to child's growth and development and it is parents' responsibility to provide proper nutrition to fuel that growth. It is crucial not to give in to your toddler's whining and not to allow him to dictate you what to cook. Besides, children are too young and inexperienced in eating different foods they may not like something today, but in a few weeks it might taste just right. Be persistent in trying to get your kids to try new foods.

Do not force your children to eat. They may not be hungry. Young kids have the ability to tell when they are hungry or full and they eat accordingly. Altering this natural mechanism by forcing a child to eat, could result in an eating disorder later on. Instead, you can control snacks and drinks. Eating a snack, or drinking a cup of whole milk or juice, just before dinner, could easily fill your toddler's stomach and he might not eat anything afterwards. So, keep snacks small and don't serve them too close to mealtime (no later than 1-1/2 to 2 hours before a meal). And make sure he is hydrated by giving him water to drink.

Make eating fun. Children like to eat food that looks interesting and colorful. You can use cookie cutters for making fun shaped sandwiches, pancakes, chicken nuggets, and vegetables. Try to make a silly face out of mashed potatoes, cherry tomatoes for eyes, thin carrot sticks for hair, an olive

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