D.W.'s Top 10 suggestions
For picky eaters
Respect your child's appetite - or lack of one
if your child isn't hungry don't force a meal/snack. Likewise don't bribe or force your child to eat certain foods or clear their plate . Serve small portions to avoid overwhelming your child.
Be patient with new foods
Encourage your child by talking about the food's , color, shape, aroma and texture - not whether it taste good. Serve new foods along with your child's favorite food's.
Make it fun
Serve broccoli or other veggies with a favorite dipping sauce. Cut food into shapes , offer breakfast food's for dinner.
Recruit your child's help
At the grocery store ask your child to help you select fruits , veggies , and other healthy food's. Don't buy foo's that you don't want your child eating.
Set a good example
If you eat a variety of healthy foods your child is more likely to follow .
Minimize distractions
Turn off the TV and other electronic devices during meal times . This will help your child focus on eating.
Don't be a short-order cook
Preparing a separate meal for your child is promoting picky eating. Encourage your child to stay at the table even if they are not eating .
Be creative
Add chopped veggies into soup or casseroles , top cereal with fruit slices.
Don't offer dessert as a reward
Withholding dessert sends the message that dessert is the best food, which might only increase your child's sweet tooth. Select 1 or 2 nights for your child to have dessert.
Stick to the routine
Serve meals and snacks at about the same times everyday