>
I have confessed that my kids are super picky eaters. I have no idea how this happened, but it plagues me. I started out feeding them all kinds of healthy fruits and veggies and lots of protein, which they used to eat liberally. Then one by one the variety of foods they would eat dwindled to nearly nothing. My five year old understands the difference between good food and junk food. He is constantly asking if something is good for him, if it will make him grow or get smarter. But my three year old, Alex, has no concept of this and is clearly addicted to carbs. He could truly live on bread alone, if I’d let him. But I don’t. I may be a Type B mom, but I’m not lazy or unconcerned. I just choose not to make food a huge battle.
A few strange tricks have at least helped my mind rest a little easier.
Neither of my children would eat peanut butter, a protein staple that moms of picky eaters often depend on. So one day I offered to make them a slice of cinnamon bread with peanut butter and cupcake sprinkles. It worked, and eventually became a regular two slices of bread sandwich. I figure a couple sprinkles are worth it to get some protein in with their carbs. Now peanut butter and sprinkle sandwiches are almost an every day meal.
We have finally gotten to the stage where everything can be dipped in ketchup. At least for my older child. If that means a little ketchup goes with the asparagus, so be it. I can’t believe my kid now willingly eats asparagus.
And finally…I have started rewarding new food tasting with silly bands. I’m not below resorting to a bit of bribery now and again.
Do you have any tips for getting your picky eaters to chow down?
Water Water Everywhere 
Posted by Amber @ The Momma Stuff Blog on July 27, 2010 at 10:18 pm
>I make dips by mixing a little bit of store bought hommous with carrot baby food – its a good protein kick and a great afternoon snack with crackers or veggies. Adding carrots makes the dip sweeter, thinner and a little more familiar. I used to make it all from scratch, but I just don't have the time these days. Amber 🙂 ps. other baby purees would work too, I tried peas, but the boy definitely prefer carrot!
Posted by Leighann on July 28, 2010 at 7:16 am
>My second is 'more particular' than my first. i noticed if i get her super hungry – no snacking within a few hours of dinner – she eats much better. she grazes (like me) so tends to pick at her meals. and a promise of dessert seems to help too. 🙂
Posted by Homemaker Honey on July 28, 2010 at 7:31 am
>Hello! I'm participating in iFellowship. Enjoy this day the Lord has made and may you be glad in it!Deborahhomemakerhoney.com
Posted by Melinda on July 28, 2010 at 8:16 am
>Your sprinkle idea was inspired! 🙂 As a mom of 5 – my advice is to not give them choices. Put the meal on the table with a smile. Also limit snacks so they get to the table hungry at meal times! My picky eater is now 14 and a fun kid to be around – even at meal times!
Posted by ~Amy~ on July 28, 2010 at 9:27 am
>My 3 year old daughter just realized that ketchup is actually good as well and is a great way to get her to eat all kinds of things! :)Blessings from ifellowship!
Posted by cfoxes33 on July 28, 2010 at 11:50 am
>Sounds to me like you are doing a great job!
Posted by SomeGirl on July 28, 2010 at 10:15 pm
>Silly bands could use that as a marketing technique… "Can't get a picky eater to eat? Try Silly Bands!" lol Fun post to read, btw. ♥ MichelleHappy iFellowship Day!