5 Reasons Why Your Child Refuses to Eat and What to Do

They feel pressure to eat

#1

Let your toddler self-feed and eat at their own pace at meals, provide lots of food variety at meals in manageable amounts, and let them be in charge of whether and how much they eat.

Large Radish

How to fix it

They have no say in what's served 

#2

It’s important to set healthy boundaries and uphold your responsibility of “what, when and where”, but it’s also ok to let your kids be a part of the process.

Large Radish

How to fix it

They're in a food rut (boredom)

#3

We get bored of certain foods and so do our kids! Switch up serving styles. Something as simple as changing the shape or texture of food can make a difference to a child. If raw cauliflower, carrots or celery are too crunchy, steam them.

Large Radish

How to fix it

They're just not hungry!

#4

Try to accept “I’m just not hungry” as an acceptable answer, and remind your child that the kitchen will be closed after mealtime.

Large Radish

How to fix it

They're distracted while eating

#5

No toys at the table and no eating in front of the TV (that goes for parent too—no phones at the table!).

Large Radish

How to fix it

Swipe up to see more reasons why your child is refusing to eat and what helps them become happy, healthy eaters!