Responsive Feeding for Selective Eaters

BY KAYLA LINDQUIST, MS, RDN, LDN, CLS

Developing healthy eating habits that will set the foundation for a lifetime of well-being is a goal for many parents. However, dealing with selective eaters can be a challenging and exhausting journey for both parents and children with selective eating habits. Exploring the concept of responsive feeding and how it can positively impact the eating habits of selective eaters may alleviate stress and tension centered around eating.

Selective eating, often referred to as “picky eating”, is a common phase in childhood development. Children may exhibit preferences for certain textures, flavors, or food groups, leading to a limited diet. While this behavior can be frustrating for parents, it’s essential to recognize that selective eating is a natural part of a child’s growth and exploration of the world around them. In fact, in normal development, it can take up to twenty exposures for a child to accept a new food. Exposure can range from seeing and helping prep the food all the way to fully consuming the food item. You should always consult with your child’s primary care provider regarding ongoing concerns or to confirm that selective eating habits are due to normal developmental stages and not related to other conditions that may require more support than responsive feeding alone.

Responsive feeding is an approach that emphasizes tuning into a child’s hunger and fullness cues while respecting their autonomy in making food choices. This approach recognizes that every child is unique, with their own set of preferences and appetites. By being responsive to your child’s needs, you create a positive eating environment that fosters a healthy relationship with food.

Practical Tips for Responsive Feeding

Create a Positive Environment: Cultivate a positive and relaxed atmosphere during meals. Avoid pressure, coercion, or negative comments about the food. Instead, focus on the joy of eating together and the social aspect of mealtimes.
Offer a Variety of Foods: Introduce a diverse range of foods to expose your child to different flavors and textures. This can be done gradually, allowing them to explore new foods at their own pace. Be patient and celebrate small victories.
Model Healthy Eating Habits: Children learn by observing. Demonstrate healthy eating habits by incorporating a variety of nutritious foods into your own diet. Make mealtime a family affair, sharing the experience of trying new foods together.
Respect Their Preferences: While introducing new foods, be mindful of your child’s preferences. It’s okay if they don’t immediately embrace every food item. Respect their autonomy and allow them to have some control over what they eat.
Encourage Independence: Foster a sense of independence by involving your child in meal preparation or decision-making processes. This can create a positive association with food and empower them to make healthier choices.
Be Patient and Persistent: Changing eating habits takes time. Don’t be discouraged by initial resistance. Stay persistent, and celebrate the small victories along the way. Remember, it’s about creating a lifelong positive relationship with food.

In conclusion, responsive feeding is a powerful tool for parents or caregivers who are experiencing selective eating behaviors in a child. By fostering a positive and supportive environment, you can help your child develop healthy eating habits that will last a lifetime. As a dietitian, my advice is to approach this journey with patience, understanding, and a commitment to building a positive relationship between your child and the diverse world of food. As always, check in with your providers for support and confirmation that responsive feeding is the most appropriate approach for your child.

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PHOTO: Capernaum Pediatric Therapy, Inc.