Feeding difficulties in young children are very common. They can be influenced by the environment around mealtimes, emotional development, or the food itself.
Some children develop negative associations with certain foods. This can cause stress or discomfort when those foods are presented again.
Around the age of two, children also experience big developmental changes. They begin to seek independence and form strong opinions. Refusing food is often a simple way to show control.
Feeding difficulties in young children are a very common source of stress for parents. As a loving parent, you want to provide nutritious food that your child enjoys, yet no matter what you try, it may still end up on the floor or be refused altogether.
The reasons behind this very common behaviour in young children can vary from the situation around eating to the food itself. Some kids may have a negative association with a particular food and cause them to feel uncomfortable and stressed when presented with it. Additionally, children particularly around the age of 2 are experiencing changes – this includes developing a need for independence and an opinion of their own. Picking their food is unfortunately an easy way for them to show “dominance” and “control.”
Feeding Difficulties in Young Children: Why Do They Happen?
Sometimes, it comes down to the texture and smell of the food. A food that is too soft or too hard, or smells too strongly can be repulsive to your child. It’s important to be empathetic towards your child as they navigate the world of food – it’s their first time experiencing all these flavours and textures.
Feeding difficulties in young children can be influenced by sensory sensitivities, emotional development, and the environment around mealtimes.
To prevent your child from becoming a fussy eater/make them more comfortable with eating, there are a few tricks which can increase your chances of success with feeding.
1) Make it fun! Kids love bright colours, so ensuring that your kids eat a “rainbow” of foods (vegetables, fruits) can both be entertaining for them and beneficial, as you will likely provide them with all the nutrients they require.
2) Setting matters. When trying new foods, try them out in a low-pressure environment where they feel safe and encouraged. Have family members or friends that are older than your child eat the same food, as children tend to mimic adults they admire. If they see you enjoying a new food, they’ll be excited to try it themselves – it’s very important for you to exhibit excitement and positivity around the topic of food.
3) Change it up. If your child absolutely loves apples, try out foods of a similar texture or smell or colour, such as pears. Or, if your child isn’t a fan of baked potatoes, you can try feeding them a different form of the same, such as mashed or fried. Parents often have success when changing the presentation of the food.
3) Take it slow. Patience is key. Sometimes when you offer your child a new food, they’ll accept it. However, if you force kids to eat a certain food, this can create anxiety for the child and therefore lessens the chances ofthem trying that particular food in the future. By giving them time to try new foods, they won’t feel nervous and have the freedom to decide whether they like it or not.
Remember that each child is different. Don’t compare your child to others as they all develop individually. With some kids, it can take 15 or more exposures of a certain food until they feel comfortable to eat it, which is normal.
We have a qualified speech pathologist at Perth Speech Therapy who works with children aged 2 years and up with feeding difficulties. Inquire today and we will be happy to help assist you with any issues you may have!
Concerned about your child’s feeding? Contact Perth Speech Therapy to speak with our qualified speech pathologist today.