How to Encourage A Fussy Eater to Try New Foods

Having a fussy eater in your life can be real pain in the ass, especially if you're trying to introduce them to new foods or encourage them to eat a balanced diet. However, with the right strategies and approach, you can help your picky eater expand their palate and develop a healthier relationship with food.

Start small and be patient

When it comes to encouraging a fussy eater to try new foods, it's important to start small and be patient. Introduce new foods gradually, and don't force someone to eat anything they don't want to. Instead, offer small tastes and encourage them to explore new flavors and textures at their own pace. Remember, it can take up to 10-15 exposures to a new food before the fussy eater will accept it, so don't give up if they don't like it the first time. Keep offering it in different ways and be patient.

Get them involved in the cooking process

One effective strategy to encourage a fussy eater to try new foods is to involve them in the cooking process. Let them help you choose ingredients at the grocery store, and give them age-appropriate tasks in the kitchen, such as stirring or measuring ingredients. When they are involved in the cooking process, they are more likely to be interested in trying new foods and flavors. Additionally, cooking together can be a fun bonding experience for you and the fussy eater.

Offer a variety of options

It's important to offer a variety of options when trying to encourage a fussy eater to try new foods. This can include different types of fruits and vegetables, as well as different cooking methods and seasonings. Don't be afraid to get creative and try new recipes or flavor combinations. It may take some trial and error, but eventually you may find a new food that your fussy eater enjoys. Remember to be patient and persistent, as it can take multiple exposures to a new food before the fussy eater is willing to try it.

Make it fun and exciting

One effective strategy to encourage a fussy eater to try new foods is to make it fun and exciting. Get creative with presentation, such as arranging food in fun shapes or using colorful plates and utensils. Involve the fussy eater in the cooking process, allowing them to help choose ingredients and participate in meal preparation. You can also make trying new foods into a game, such as a taste test or a food adventure where you try new foods from different cultures. By making the experience enjoyable, your fussy eater may be more willing to try new foods and expand their palate.

Don't force it, but keep trying

It's important to remember that forcing a fussy eater to try new foods can actually backfire and create negative associations with food. Instead, offer new foods in small portions and without pressure. Encourage the fussy eater to take a small bite and praise them for trying something new, even if they don't like it. Keep offering new foods regularly, as it can take multiple exposures for them to develop a taste for something. With patience and persistence, your fussy eater may surprise you by trying and enjoying new foods.

When all else fails, just say, "Piss ON IT!"