Picky Eating What’s Normal and What’s Not

By Michele Schwartz, MS, OTR/L

If you have a picky eater at home, you’re not alone. Many children go through phases where they refuse to try new foods.

A picky eater is a child who is very selective about the foods they eat and may only eat a limited range of foods.

They typically have 15-30 foods they will eat on a regular basis. They may be missing foods from certain food groups, but overall their nutrition is adequate.

Picky eating is when a child’s diet is limited but they are still receiving adequate nutrition. Toddlers are notoriously picky eaters.

When does picky eating become a problem?

If your child: – Is not getting adequate nutrition – Does not eat any foods from a certain food group – Your child rejects foods based on texture   – Has difficulty chewing meat – Eats less than 15 food

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