Parenting a Finicky Child: When Should You Worry?

There are often many reasons why you child might be a finicky eater.

Some children have naturally small appetites. Some children don't need as much food as their peers to feel full. They also don't need as much food to be happy and healthy.

Sometimes, a child won't eat much at mealtimes because of the snacks and juice they ate at other times during the day. Depending on when they last ate a snack, and the kind of snack they had, your child just might not be hungry by lunch or dinner time.

However, there are some cases in which finicky eating habits could mean your child has a medical condition you're unaware of.

Are They Losing Weight?

Usually, even the most finicky eaters maintain a healthy body weight. This means that, even though it doesn't seem to you that they are eating enough, they are actually getting the nutrients their bodies need to stay healthy.

However, if your finicky eater has started to lose weight, this could mean they're not eating enough to meet their body's nutritional needs.

Weight loss can also be a sing of an underlying illness, especially if your child is still eating about the same amount as they always have.

Has Your Child Always Been a Finicky Eater?

If your child has always been a finicky eater, this is probably just how they are naturally. Having less of an appetite on some days, or at certain times of the day, than others is also natural for some children.

However, if you're child's finicky eating habits are a recent development, and they eat less than usual for several days, an illness could be causing their loss of appetite. Keep an eye out for other symptoms, like diarrhea, fever, or vomiting. Gagging when they try to eat certain foods could also be a sign that your child is suffering from some ailment.

Is Your Child's Hair Thinning?

This could be a sign that your child is malnourished, and their body isn't getting enough of what it needs to be healthy.

If you're child is a finicky eater, and you've noticed their hair is getting thinner, take them to the doctor immediately. A physician can determine whether or not your child is suffering from an illness. Or, they can suggest vitamin and mineral supplements that will ensure your child gets the vitamins and minerals they need to stay healthy.

Often, a child's finicky eating habits aren't anything to worry about. But there are usually signs when a child's finicky eating habits are a symptom of a more serious health concern. Once you learn these signs, you'll have a good idea whether or not your child needs medical treatment.