Parenting a Finicky Child: When Not to Worry

Some children, it seems, will eat just about anything. Sure, they prefer sweets like cookies, candy, and cake. But they'll eat their fruits and even vegetables, and usually clean their plates at mealtimes.

Then, there are those children who are finicky eaters. They eat, but it doesn't seem to you like they eat enough to stay healthy.

It's hard not to worry that your finicky eater isn't getting enough of the vitamins and minerals they need to stay healthy. But, for some children, finicky eating habits are perfectly normal, and usually not a cause for concern.

How Constant Is the Problem?

If your child usually eats what you consider a normal amount of food most of the time, but only eats a small portion of their meals at other times, there's usually don't need to worry. A child's appetite can change a lot from one day to the next.

Also, if your child eats a regular amount at breakfast and lunch, but barely touches their dinner, that could simply mean they naturally have less of an appetite later in the day. In that case, make sure they get the nutrients they need in their morning and afternoon meals.

Remember, Children Have Smaller Stomachs

If you're worried because your child doesn't eat everything on their plate, consider how much food you're serving them.

If you give your child an adult-sized portion of food, it could simply be too much for their stomach to handle. Children only need a fraction of the food adults need to stay full and healthy.

When filling your child's plate, adjust the portions to what's appropriate for their size and age. Or, simply give them half of what you give the adults in the family. Your child can always ask for more if they're still hungry later on.

Danger Signs

If your child's appetite has drastically changed suddenly, they've gone for several days without eat very much, they are tired and listless, their hair has started to thin, or they've suddenly started to lose weight, you might need to take them to a doctor. These could be signs that your child's finicky eating habits are a symptom of a more serious health problem. It could also mean that, while your child isn't suffering from an ailment, they aren't eating enough to get the essential nutrients they need to stay healthy.

Give Your Child a Daily Multi-Vitamin

If you're sure your finicky child isn't suffering from an underlying illness, but you're still worried that they aren't eating enough to stay healthy, talk to their doctor about giving them a daily multi-vitamin. While supplements shouldn't take the place of healthy snacks and well-balanced meals, a daily multivitamin is one way to ensure your child is receiving the Recommended Dietary Allowance of essential vitamins and minerals.

Eating habits can vary from one child to another, and some children just naturally have smaller appetites. Once you've concluded that finicky eating habits are just normal for your child, you can rest assured that the fact that they don't eat as much as other children their age doesn't mean they aren't perfectly healthy and happy.