Getting a Toddler to Try New Foods

As a parent, you want your child to have a healthy and varied diet. However, getting a toddler to try new foods can be a challenge. Toddlers can be picky eaters and may resist trying new foods, even if they are healthy and delicious. Here are some tips to help encourage your toddler to try new foods:

1. Offer a variety of foods Offer your toddler a variety of foods from different food groups. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in their diet. This can help your toddler develop a taste for several types of foods and prevent them from becoming too reliant on a few favorite foods.
2. Make it fun Presenting food in a fun and creative way can make it more appealing to a toddler. Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes out of fruits and vegetables or arrange food in a colorful and visually appealing way on their plate.
3. Let them help your toddler in meal preparation. Let them help you wash vegetables, stir ingredients, and set the table. This can give them a sense of ownership over the meal and make them more interested in trying new foods.
4. Offer small portions Start by offering small portions of new foods alongside familiar foods. This can help your toddler feel less overwhelmed and more willing to try something new.
5. Be a role model Show your toddler that you enjoy a variety of healthy foods. If they see you eating and enjoying new foods, they may be more willing to try them themselves.
6. Be patient. Don’t force your toddler to try new foods. Encourage them to take a bite, but don't make a big deal out of it if they don't like it. It can take several tries before a toddler develops a taste for a new food, so be patient and keep offering it.
7. Offer healthy dips and sauces Offering healthy dips and sauces, such as hummus or yogurt-based dips, can make raw vegetables or whole-grain crackers more appealing to toddlers.

Remember, every child is different, and it may take some time and patience to get your toddler to try new foods. Keep offering a variety of healthy options and make mealtime fun and enjoyable. With time and persistence, your toddler will develop a taste for new and healthy foods.