Conquering Fussy Eating
We help fussy eaters and their families turn stressful mealtimes into simple, enjoyable moments.
What is ‘fussy’ eating?
‘Picky’ or ‘fussy’ eating is when a child consistently refuses or shows aversions to certain foods. This behavior can involve refusing to try new foods, being selective about the types of foods they will eat, or only eating a limited variety of foods. Fussy eating is a common phase in childhood, often emerging around the ages of 2 to 6, and is typically linked to the development of autonomy and taste preferences.
While it can be frustrating for parents, it’s important to remember that picky eating is usually temporary. Children may reject foods due to texture, color, taste, or unfamiliarity. However, if picky eating persists for an extended period, it can impact the child’s nutrition, making it more challenging to ensure they are getting the variety of nutrients they need for growth and development.
As a children’s dietitian, the goal is to help parents manage this behaviour. With patience, persistence, and appropriate strategies, many children outgrow picky eating, learning to enjoy a more diverse and balanced diet.