03/26/2025
https://www.facebook.com/share/19pkpSdazH/
Here’s your weekly reminder that it can take 15-20+(+++) exposures of a given food before your baby, toddler or preschooler will want to try it. This is considered typical and expected. Send to a friend who might relate 😝😱
Why? Even though eating seems as simple as open mouth, insert food, chew and swallow…there’s actually a lot more to it than that. They have to tolerate food on their plate, then in their hands. Each step to eating can create a roadblock for your kid. Maybe the food is hard for them to chew. Maybe it reminds them of something they didn’t like. Maybe they’re banning all foods green for the moment because .
Instead of getting frustrated, keep serving it without pressure as part of their meal if it’s on the menu. Don’t force them to take “one polite bite” - this might work in the short-term but can actually backfire. Instead, model eating it yourself and keep serving it in very small portions so it’s less overwhelming!
When we assume our kids just don’t like it after offering it once, our kids miss out on the opportunity to learn to love that food…eventually. Remember, they might not eat it now, but they might eat it one day. The only way to get there is to keep trying.
Also, remember to mix up how you serve it.
➡️ Cook it with different seasonings.
➡️ Use different cooking methods: roast, sauté, steam, stir-fry. For toddlers, try serving raw in small pieces.
➡️ Serve it with a favorite dip.
Don’t be surprised if they try it one day and then decide they don’t like it the next. Also normal (albeit annoying).
Need step-by-step help that works? Head to feedinglittles.com (link in bio) to check out our affordable Toddler & Kid Course for ages 1-10 years!
