Picky eating behaviours in preschool children are common – and may create the risk for a nutrient deficiency. These behaviours in children are linked to a variety of causes, and can include anything from a normal first step in a child's independence to sensitivities to food textures.

Typical picky eating behaviours

  • Eating very little vegetables
  • Accepting only a limited number of foods
  • An unwillingness to try new foods
  • Having a limited intake of vegetables and other nutrient-dense foods
  • Disruptive mealtime behaviour
  • Lack of interest in food
  • Having strong food preferences

If picky eating behaviours go on too long, they may create a risk for a nutrient deficiency. Importantly, you cannot always tell if a child is at risk for a nutrient deficiency just by looking. Even children with normal body weight may have nutritional deficiencies. Yet regardless of appearance, picky eaters may still be deficient in macro- and micronutrients like iron.

Is Your Child a Picky Eater?

To find out whether your child's picky eating behaviours are a passing stage or something that can put your child at risk for a nutrient deficiency, answer these questions:

Does your child eat only a limited number of foods? Yes No
Is your child unwilling to try new foods? Yes No
Does your child refuse to eat vegetables and/or foods from some other food groups? Yes No
Does your child show strong food likes and dislikes? Yes No
Does your child's behaviour disrupt mealtimes? Yes No

If you answered "Yes" to two or more of these questions, ask your doctor if your child may be a picky eater at risk for a nutrient deficiency.
Share this quiz and other observations about your child's eating habits with your doctor to discuss if indeed your child is a picky eater. Early identification and management of your child's picky eating behaviours may help prevent the development of nutrient deficiencies.

Tips for dealing with your child's picky eating1*

  • Avoid distractions while eating – food should be eaten in a calm environment
  • Adopt a neutral attitude to eating behaviour – avoid excess praise, criticism, stimulation and coercion.
  • Feed at specific intervals and avoid snacking to encourage appetite – feed 3 to 4 hours apart and nothing in between.
  • Limit the duration of meals – meals should last between 20 to 30 minutes or 15 if the child is not eating.
  • Use age-appropriate foods.
  • Introduce novel foods one at a time and expose the child to the food up to 15 times before assuming it will not be taken.
  • Encourage independent feeding.
  • Tolerate age-appropriate messiness when eating.

*Reprinted with permission
1.Kerzner B, world-renowned pediatric gastroenterologist visits South Africa. S Afr J Clin Nutr. 2008;21:45.

For more information on dealing with Feeding Difficulties:

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