Your little one refuses to eat anything. You've tried everything and you're discouraged. The box of cereal your child loves so much is right there in the pantry. The temptation to take it out is strong, but this time, you resist!
Food whims?
Babies perceive flavors differently than adults. They have more taste buds, and these are more sensitive. Therefore, your child tastes food more intensely than you do.
Some children perceive flavors (especially bitter ones) more intensely than others. They are hypersensitive; they are also called hyper-guzzling. For these children, it can take a very long time to appreciate new foods. Conversely, hypo-guzzling children are less sensitive to the taste of food and accept it more easily. Every child is unique.
Between the ages of 2 and 10, children can develop food neophobia, or a fear of trying new foods. This stage of life is perfectly normal: three out of four children go through it. Don't worry, this fear disappears with time. During this difficult phase, patience and a positive attitude are key. Keep in mind that it can take up to 20 exposures to the same food before a child is willing to try it. Be patient!
Or lack of appetite?
Around the age of two, a period that coincides with food neophobia, a child's growth temporarily slows down. As a result, they are less hungry at mealtimes and play more with their food. Don't worry, and don't mistake this for a whim. Children will eat by listening to their hunger cues and thus respecting their needs.
So, what should we do?
To help your child develop their tastes and eat until they're satisfied, while also making mealtimes easier, try "shared responsibility." This scientifically proven solution provides structure for your child while taking their individual needs into account. It helps prevent and even overcome tantrums.
The sharing of responsibilities can be summarized as follows: the parent decides on the menu, the time, the procedure and the place of the meal, while the child decides how much he/she wants to eat.
Parent: what, when, where, how
Child: how many
It may seem counterintuitive and worrying when a child only eats three bites. However, this approach builds their confidence in their ability to listen to their body and shows them that they can explore food at their own pace. Resist the temptation to offer a different dish if the child refuses the meal. They will likely try one or two items on the table. If they are still hungry after dinner, they will know to take a few more bites from their plate next time.
Should I still offer dessert?
Yes! If dessert is planned (it's not mandatory), offer a portion, regardless of how much food has already been eaten. That said, offer only one portion of dessert to avoid overindulging, and this applies to the rest of the family as well. Dessert should not be a bargaining chip or a reward. If the dessert is nutritious (homemade muffin, fruit, yogurt, crumble, etc.), why not have it? This approach also helps children develop a healthy relationship with food. That's good for their health too!
Text written in collaboration with Gabrielle Proulx, nutrition intern.
