10 Ways to Deal with a Picky Eater: Tips from Nutritionists
Knowing how to handle a picky eater might be something you want to learn right now. But remember, every child is a unique creation, so the causes can be very diverse.
From picky eating phases to health issues, there are many factors behind this condition. As a parent, it is important not to worry excessively, let alone force the child to keep eating, which could traumatize them.
By having the right understanding and choosing an appropriate approach, you can help your little one develop healthy eating habits.
1. Watch the Portions

Children's digestive systems are not like those of adults, and the same goes for their daily caloric needs. Therefore, it is important to ensure the portions you provide are just right—not too little, and certainly not too much.
You can use the size of the child's hand as a reference. A serving of protein the size of their palm, for instance, is sufficient for their daily needs. Using this method also introduces them to the feelings of hunger and fullness—while avoiding food waste.
2. Children Do Not Like Pressure

Like most people, children do not like pressure and force. As a tip for handling a picky eater, provide a relaxed environment. Encouragement is certainly still needed, but do it gently and without coercion.
Read Also: 10 Causes of Picky Eating in Children and How to Overcome Them
After all, everyone has their own pace—including children who are struggling to eat. So, take a positive approach when encouraging your child to try new foods—and, of course, be patient.
3. Follow the Child's Lead

How do you get a child to eat? Sometimes the most effective way is to follow their lead. Let your little one hold, feel, and play with their food.
Sure, things will get messier, but this is part of the learning process. Even allowing the child to start feeding themselves is encouraged. However, keep an eye on whether the child is struggling to eat because they are exploring or due to health issues.
4. Serve Varied Foods

Did you know that a child needs to interact with food many times before they finally agree to eat it? So, don't tire of offering varied new foods.
Usually, children need up to 20 attempts before they feel familiar with a food and enjoy it. To make it easier, serve new foods alongside other foods your little one already knows.
Additionally, providing the same food as the rest of the family is also a good idea, as children tend to mimic what they see.
5. Set a Good Example

To overcome picky eating, being a good example is essential. Show your joy when eating with positive facial expressions and enthusiastic comments about the taste of the food.
Children tend to imitate and are more interested in trying food when they see their parents enjoying it. Furthermore, involve them in the process of choosing and preparing food, and provide simple explanations about the benefits of the food.
6. Set Meal Times

It is also necessary to set meal times, for example, 20 minutes for one meal session. If your little one does not want to touch their food at all, put it away calmly—there is no need to get emotional.
You don't need to offer alternative foods or other snacks. Just provide water or milk (if they still drink it) until the next scheduled meal time.
7. Invite Your Little One to Prepare Food

Sometimes, the way to get a child to eat is not to constantly force them to eat at meal times. Any interaction with food, even if the little one refuses it, will increase their familiarity with that food. Alternatively, you can invite them to help prepare the food—even starting from growing it.
8. Make Eating a Fun Experience

Creating a fun experience during meals can also spark a child's desire to eat. Make eating together a routine.
Besides creating a warm atmosphere, the presence of parents during meals serves as a good example for the child in forming healthy habits. Eating while interacting is certainly a fun moment for your little one.
9. Appetite-Boosting Supplements

What is the solution for a child who struggles to eat? Appetite-boosting supplements, such as Anak Sehat from Sido Muncul, can help with this problem. These supplements generally contain ingredients designed to increase appetite.
Read Also: Jamu Anak Sehat Sido Muncul: Contents, Benefits & How to Consume
However, it is important to remember that supplements should be used according to the instructions on the packaging and only as a companion to a balanced approach to the child's health. So what is a balanced diet for a child? Given that every child has different needs, do not hesitate to consult a doctor or nutritionist.
10. Consistency and Patience

All of the above will only bear fruit if parents are consistent and patient in applying them. It takes time and a repeated approach. Take your time. However, if there are concerns that the child is experiencing nutritional deficiencies, consult a doctor immediately.
It is important for you to remember that every effort is an investment in the health and future eating habits of children. You also need to broaden your patience as much as possible while applying a little touch of creativity in preparing various food options.
Keep trying with love and patience to find ways to handle your child's picky eating.