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Let’s hear from Rebecca, whose son refuses new foods, no matter what. And remember, you can call in at any time to leave a voicemail and ask me a question for a chance to be featured on the podcast.
The number to call into the show is 469-552-5527.
QUESTION: Toddler Refuses New Foods
Rebecca asked, “My son, James, is three and a half. He pretty much flat-out refuses to try anything new that he’s not comfortable with, despite me trying to make it fun or try different approaches. I will continue to expose and he still refuses; it’s sort of a battle. It’s like he won’t even consider just a tiny bite, even if it’s a food I think he’ll really enjoy it. So I’m wondering how to get around that. Then the second question is: he flat-out refuses chicken unless we’ve ordered from a Thai restaurant, no matter how I cook it or how I present it. So that’s very frustrating because I’d like to get him to eat chicken when possible, as an added protein.”
ANSWER
I hear this a lot. You follow me and other dietitians on Instagram, you’re trying all the things. But it seems like no matter what, you’re just really not getting anywhere, and your toddler isn’t trying anything new.
Here’s what I want to explain today about toddlers who are refusing new foods: It’s making them upset, so they’re fearful and scared.
“The fear they have is real even though the threat is not.”
We know that nothing bad is going to happen when they try a new food. Getting over the hurdle of trying something new can be a big deal for a lot of kids.
SO, how do we get closer to attacking a fear? Listen in to the full podcast to hear:
- how I recommend approaching their fear of new foods
- how to undo the fear
- my weird dating analogy for picky eating
- what you can do RIGHT NOW to improve picky eating
Now, get a free email preview series from the One Meal Challenge! After just one day of following along, a mom messaged me: “The first challenge was an amazing experience for my son, my husband, and myself. I was screaming with joy inside. I am looking forward to this new eating journey with my son. Thank you!”
You can start right now and get those picky eating wins, too! I am rooting for you!