Fussy eating is common in young children and often linked to developmental stages, sensory preferences, and mealtime pressure. The good news? With the right approach, children can learn to eat a wider variety of foods without stress or battles at the table.
Why is my child so fussy with food?
If your child refuses meals, only eats certain foods, or won’t try new things, you’re not alone. Many parents worry something is “wrong,” but fussy eating is often a normal stage of development.
Children naturally go through phases of independence and food is one area where they can express control. Understanding the why behind your child’s behaviour is the first step to helping them build positive eating habits.
Common reasons children become fussy eaters
1. Developmental phases:
Around ages 2-6, children can become more cautious with new foods. This is known as neophobia: a fear of trying unfamiliar foods.
2. Sensory sensitivities:
Some children are sensitive to certain textures, smells, or appearances of food. This isn’t “being difficult”; it’s their sensory system reacting strongly to change.
3. Past negative experiences:
If a child has ever gagged, vomited, or been pressured to eat, they may develop a learned fear around mealtimes.
4. Pressure and control:
Saying “just one more bite” can backfire. When children feel pressured, they may resist even more.
5. Medical or feeding difficulties:
Sometimes fussy eating can be linked to reflux, allergies, constipation, or oral-motor issues. These can all make eating uncomfortable.
What you can do to help
- Offer variety, not pressure - serve small portions of new foods alongside familiar ones. Stay neutral. Your role is to offer, not convince.
- Keep mealtimes calm - avoid distractions, but also avoid power struggles. Consistent routines help children feel safe to explore food.
- Model curiosity - eat the same foods and describe what you notice (“This carrot is crunchy and sweet!”). Children learn best through watching you.
- Build exposure through play - let kids touch, smell, or explore foods without the expectation to eat. Food play builds comfort and familiarity. Download our FREE food bingo game to facilitate this.
- Get professional support if needed - if your child is losing weight, eating fewer than 10 foods, or avoiding entire food groups, a paediatric dietitian can help create a plan that suits their needs.
FAQ: Parents Often Ask
Q: Is fussy eating just a phase?
A: For most children, yes. It’s common between ages 2–6 and often improves with time, consistency and low-pressure exposure.
Q: Should I make my child eat vegetables?
A: Forcing or bribing often makes things worse. Instead, keep offering vegetables in fun, pressure-free ways.
Q: How can I tell if it’s more than just fussy eating?
A: If your child has strong gag reflexes, extreme texture avoidance, slow growth, or major food restriction, seek professional advice.
Q: My child eats well at daycare but not at home - why?
A: Children often eat better in social group settings with less parental pressure. Try to recreate that relaxed environment at home.
Q: Are supplements necessary for fussy eaters?
A: It depends on your child’s diet and growth. A paediatric dietitian can assess their nutritional needs before recommending any supplements.
Need Personalised Support?
If mealtimes feel stressful or your child’s variety is shrinking, you don’t have to manage it alone. Book a 1:1 consultation with me - I’ll help you understand your child’s eating patterns, address any nutritional gaps, and guide your family toward calmer, more confident mealtimes.
Book a Paediatric Nutrition Consult
Key Takeaway
Fussy eating is not your fault and it doesn’t mean your child will “always be picky.” With patience, the right strategies, and gentle guidance, you can help your child build a healthy, trusting relationship with food.