Supporting Healthy Eating Habits for Picky Toddlers

As babies grow into toddlers, their bodies slow down a bit — and so does their appetite. At the same time, they begin forming strong preferences, wanting more independence, and exploring foods in new (and sometimes challenging!) ways. Mealtime can feel frustrating, but this stage is completely normal.

One helpful approach is to remember the shared roles during meals: adults decide what and when food is served, and children decide whether to eat and how much. Toddlers are still learning to listen to their bodies, and trusting their cues helps build healthy eating habits that last.

Tips for Supporting Picky Eaters

• Think big picture. Nutrition balances out over several days, not every meal. If your child has energy and continues growing, they’re likely eating enough.

• Keep meal and snack times consistent. A simple routine—free from screens—helps children know what to expect.

• Avoid forcing bites or clean plates. Encourage children to notice when they’re hungry or full and trust their signals.

• Offer choices. Try simple prompts like: “Broccoli or carrots tonight?” Involving children in choosing or preparing food builds confidence and curiosity.

• Use the “two-bite” approach. It can take many tries for children to accept a new food. Serve small portions, stay patient, and try again the next week.

• Create “food bridges.” Once a child accepts one food, offer something similar—mashed sweet potatoes can lead to mashed carrots, for example.

• Pair flavors. If a food is bitter or sour, try serving it with a more familiar taste like a sprinkle of cheese.

• Make it fun. Cut foods into shapes, arrange meals into simple pictures (like faces), or describe foods playfully—“Eat your tiny trees!”
  

With time, consistency, and plenty of encouragement, picky eating usually improves. Small steps help toddlers explore new foods, learn to trust their bodies, and build healthy habits that support lifelong well-being.