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Picky Eaters

Do any of the statements below remind you of your preschooler?

"Michael won’t eat anything green, just because of the color.”
"Ebony will only eat peanut butter sandwiches!”
“Bananas used to be Matt’s favorite food, now he won’t even touch them!”
"Maria doesn’t sit still at the table. She can’t seem to pay attention long enough to eat a meal!”
“Emily will eat any food — as long as it’s white."

You are not alone. Picky eating is a typical behavior for many preschoolers. It is simply another step in the process of growing up and becoming independent.

As long as your preschooler is healthy, growing normally, and has plenty of energy, he or she is most likely getting needed nutrients.
 
If you are concerned that your child’s picky eating has lasted for a long time or is very restrictive, speak with your child’s doctor.

  What are some common types of picky eating?
  What can you do to cope with your preschooler’s picky eating?
  What can you do to get your preschooler to try new foods?
     
What you say to your preschooler affects his or her eating behavior. View a list of common phrases that help and hinder healthy eating habits.



More on Developing Healthy Eating Habits

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This page was last updated on October 23, 2008 05:31 PM

 
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