Mum in a stripy black and white top is holding baby daughter with dark brown hair and carrying some beetroot.

How Can I Help My Toddler Avoid Fussy Eating? Expert Strategies for Happier Mealtimes

At Organix, we’ve teamed up with nutritionist Clemmie Pellew-Harvey to bust the biggest myths about toddler nutrition and help you feel confident at mealtimes. Discover all of our nutrition guidance with Clemmie to find all the blogs included in this collaboration.

Not quite what you were after? Head over to our Toddler Nutrition Myths page, where Clemmie and Organix bust common myths and share expert tips for happy toddler mealtimes.
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Key Takeaways

  • Picky eating is very common in toddlers and usually nothing to worry about.
  • Using fun, positive language around food encourages curiosity and reduces mealtime stress.
  • Trust your child’s appetite. Don’t force or bribe them to eat.

How to deal with a fussy eater? 

If your toddler only eats beige food, you’re not alone! Picky eating is a normal part of growing up.

The words we use around food can either turn mealtimes into a battle or help raise curious little foodies. Instead of saying “just one bite,” try making food sound exciting:

  • “What colour do you think these blueberries will turn your smoothie? Let’s find out!”
  • “Broccoli helps our bodies grow big and strong like trees. How many can you eat?”
  • Rename dishes for fun: shepherd’s pie becomes “treasure pie” with hidden cheese!

Keep it neutral. Avoid demonising or glorifying food. Kids have an acute sense of their own appetite.

If they say, “I’m not hungry,” trust them! Don’t force or bribe with dessert.

Small changes in how we talk can turn picky eaters into food explorers.

Dealing with a Picky Eater… Make it Fun and Exciting!

If your toddler only eats beige food, you’re not alone! Picky eating is a normal part of growing up.

Use positive language: 

  • “What colour do you think these blueberries will turn into? Let’s find out!”
  • “Broccoli helps our bodies grow big and strong like trees. How many can you eat?”
  • Rename dishes for fun: shepherd’s pie becomes “treasure pie” with hidden cheese!

Fun Food Activities for Toddlers

Combine fun food activities with top tips: 

  • Eating together as a family
  • Feeding themselves
  • Experiencing new foods through variety
  • Being a role model

Understand Food Refusal is a Normal Stage for Development

  • Reassure parents: Food refusal is normal. Try changing the form or presentation of food, and remember, you’re not alone.

Top Tips for Handling Fussy Eaters from Our Nutritional Expert

  • Offer the same food as the family, avoid pressure or bribes.
  • Eat together, use positive language, and make mealtimes enjoyable.
  • Offer small portions, praise any eating, and avoid using food as a reward.
  • Keep routines, limit snacks, and involve children in food prep.
  • NHS resource: Fussy eaters

Recipes for Fussy Eaters

Other Helpful Resources

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