Parenting Tips for Your 27-28 Month Old Toddler

Picky eating is normal for toddlers. They seem to like to eat different things every day. They often don’t like to try new foods. Like many of us, toddlers like things that they know about, and resist things that are new. When toddlers resist trying a new food, it is no different from when they fight against other changes in their routine or environment.

Once things become familiar, toddlers are more comfortable with them. You can help your child get comfortable with a variety of foods by continuing to serve them during family meals. Your toddler may not eat the foods, but seeing them on the table, and watching you eat them, will help him feel comfortable tasting them.

Dealing with a picky eater:

• Do not force your toddler to eat all the food on his plate. Pressure to eat can cause your toddler to eat too much. Pressuring can also make your child dislike the food when he gets older.

• Eat together as a family. Having regular mealtimes creates a pleasant environment for children to enjoy trying new foods. It also lets your toddler see you eating the foods you would like him to eat.

• Toddlers like to show how independent they are. Letting them choose foods can help them feel independent and avoid struggles. If you offer a choice of foods, limit the number of choices to two healthy options. Resist giving in if your toddler argues. Continue to offer the two choices, like an apple or an orange. He can decide which one, if any, he wants.

• Let toddlers serve themselves. At this age, toddlers’ hand and arm muscles are developing. They are capable of lifting and scooping with child sized utensils. Serving themselves from a bowl of food you provide can help them feel independent.

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