Picky eaters

Lloyd and I got back late last night from what we called our "Betrothal Bash" - a joint bachelor/bachelorette party at his parents' ranch in Texas.  It was a melting pot of friends and family old and new, from near and far.  But my dietitian friends and I were in control of the cooking, so everyone ate (mostly) healthfully, like it or not. 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Speaking of the "like it or not" style of serving food, a new MyPyramid for Preschoolers came out this month with, among other things, tips for picky eaters.  I'd argue many of these apply to fussy adults as well.

•  Let your kids be "produce pickers." Let them help pick out fruits and veggies at the store.

• Kids like to try foods they help make. It's a great idea for helping your picky eater try fruits and vegetables. Children also learn about fruits and vegetables when they help make them. And all of that mixing, mashing and measuring makes them want to taste what they are making. See a list of kitchen activities that your child can do.

• Try to make meals a stress-free time. Talk about fun and happy things. If meals are times for family arguments, your preschooler may learn unhealthy attitudes toward food.

• Offer choices. Rather than ask "Do you want broccoli for dinner?" ask "Which would you like for dinner: broccoli or cauliflower?"

• Offer a variety of foods and let your child choose how much of these foods to eat. Tips on helping your child recognize how much to eat.

• Offer the same foods for the whole family. Don't be a "short-order cook," making a different meal for your preschooler. Your child will be okay even if they don't eat a meal now and then.

• Make food fun! Get creative in the kitchen with these cool ideas.