Posted by: Trina | November 2, 2010

When it comes to feeding toddlers and preschoolers, you have to become a marketing expert. Find creative ways to present food to your kids. I have 2 fairly picky eaters in my house so I had to come up with ways to either sneak in the good stuff or call it another name. For instance when serving Sweet Potato fries call them "Halloween Fries" in the fall. Broccoli can always be "trees"  or when they are a little younger you can get away with calling peas "candy". Another great way to get them to eat healthier foods is by using cookie cutters when making sandwiches, cheese cut outs and even some fruits.

It's all how you present the food to them, try not to make too much of a big deal about them eating the meal but act excited about the new selections that you are giving them. Once we started eating as a family for meals, and my husband and I led by example it became much easier to get my children to try foods that they normally wouldn't of tried before. Another great way to have children try new foods is to allow them to play with their food.

For a child just starting out on table food (with supervision) give them some food on their tray and allow them to touch it, smell it and try and place the food objects in their mouth. I would suggest taking their clothes off and wearing just a diaper since it's going to be a bit messy but well worth it in the end, because not only are they becoming more independent but learning to like new foods in the process. When your child gets a bit older, 2yrs and up allow them to help in the kitchen when you are making meals. Having them stir the pancake mix, pour ingredients in or even help clean up...they too are feeling like they are part of the process of the meal making which therefore makes them feel like they have ownership of it.

We would love to know what your favorite ideas are when trying to get them to eat new food items?