10 Practical Tips to Help Your Picky Toddler Eat More Foods
Struggling with a picky toddler? Discover 10 practical strategies to encourage your child to try new foods. Download my free Picky Eater Survival Guide for more tips!
Introduction
Mealtimes can feel like a battlefield when your toddler refuses to eat anything but a handful of familiar foods. If you’re asking yourself, “Why won’t my toddler eat vegetables?” or “How can I get my picky eater to try new foods?”, you’re not alone.
The good news? With a few practical strategies, patience, and the right approach, you can help your child expand their diet and enjoy mealtimes again. Plus, I’ve created a free Picky Eater Survival Guide packed with step-by-step tips you can start using today.
[Download your free guide here ]
1. Offer New Foods Without Pressure
Force and bribery can make picky eating worse. Instead, present new foods alongside familiar favourites and encourage curiosity. Let your child explore the food with their hands or small bites - no pressure.
2. Make Mealtimes Playful
Toddlers love games. Turn new foods into fun shapes, faces, or colours. Let them help arrange their plate - ownership often encourages tasting.
3. Repeat Exposure
It can take 10–15 tries for a toddler to accept a new food. Don’t give up! Consistent exposure without forcing is key.
4. Model Eating the Food Yourself
Children learn by imitation. Eat the food with enthusiasm - show your toddler it’s safe and enjoyable.
5. Introduce One Change at a Time
Overwhelming a picky eater with too many new foods can backfire. Introduce one new food at each meal or snack.
6. Pay Attention to Texture
Many toddlers are sensitive to texture. Offer new foods in different textures (e.g., steamed, mashed, finger-food) to find what they like.
7. Keep Meals Short and Calm
Long, stressful mealtimes make picky eating worse. Aim for 15–20 minute meals, and stay calm even if your child refuses the food.
8. Offer a Variety of Colours
Bright, colourful plates attract toddlers’ attention. A visually appealing plate can make new foods more exciting.
9. Encourage Self-Feeding
Toddlers are more willing to try foods they can feed themselves. Finger foods or toddler-friendly utensils can make a huge difference.
10. Celebrate Small Wins
Even tasting a new food once is progress. Praise effort, not just success, to encourage confidence and willingness.
Conclusion
Picky eating is a common phase, but with patience and the right strategies, you can make mealtimes enjoyable again. If you want step-by-step guidance, download my free Picky Eater Survival Guide — it’s full of tips, meal ideas, and practical strategies that parents love.