When serving small children, remember they do not need an adult-size serving. Give children smaller servings than you think they can eat. They can always ask for more. The specialist cautioned parents not to force-feed picky eaters. Force-feeding could backfire and have a negative effect.
Kids eat when they are hungry and stop when they are full.
If children prefer junk food to healthy foods, such as fruits and vegetables, reduce the amount of junk food in the house or offer it only in moderation. Mixon said do not use junk food as a reward for eating healthy food. Explain to children that some of their favorite snack foods may contain healthy ingredients. Notice any flavors children prefer and introduce healthier forms of those ingredients. Allowing children to help select foods in the grocery and to help prepare meals can create a sense of pride for them, Mixon said.