health
independence, it can be helpful to
offer them some control over their
eating. For example, you can offer
them a choice of two options (such
as a yogurt or a piece of fruit) for
their snack. Limit the choice to
just two options so they are not
overwhelmed and make sure both
choices are healthy.
• Self-Feeding:
Although it can be messy, your child
may eat more if they have more
control so encourage them to feed
themselves from a young age with
finger foods such as vegetable
sticks, chopped fruit, crackers
and sandwiches
• Meal Preparation:
Children are more likely to taste
foods if they’ve helped prepare
them. If age appropriate, involve
your child with shopping, meal
planning, chopping, mixing,
cooking and even growing herbs
or vegetables if you have a garden.
Making meals colourful and
interesting can also make the meal
more appealing and fun.
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Children learn from,
and respond to, what
they see. If they see
the people around
them eating a variety
of foods they are more
likely to do the same
Is it Important to Address
Fussy Eating?
Most children grow out of this stage
quickly and it has no effect on their
long-term health and growth. However,
fussy eating can be a burden on
families as it can cause mealtimes
to be stressful and parents are often
concerned about their child’s diet.
“Fussy eaters” are more likely to be
deficient in some micronutrients, such
as vitamin C and folate, and many don’t
get enough fibre, which can cause
constipation. Prolonged fussy eating can
also influence diet in adulthood and, if
severe, may lead to issues with weight.
If your child is eating foods from
the four main food groups (fruit and
vegetables; starchy carbohydrates such
as bread, rice, pasta and potatoes; dairy
or dairy alternatives; and protein foods
such as meat, fish, beans, pulses and
eggs) they have a balanced diet and if
your child is happy, active and gaining
weight, they’re eating enough.
If, on the other hand, your child is
not gaining weight or is lethargic, weak
or irritable, you should speak to your
doctor. It’s important to first rule out any
medical or behavioural reason for them
not eating as there may, occasionally,
be an underlying problem. A dietitian
can also offer support by evaluating
your child’s diet to see if it is deficient
in any nutrients and give appropriate
recommendations and advice to resolve
any issues. If you are unsure, make an
appointment with your GP.
Sarah Connellan is a registered dietitian
at Central Health Medical Practice