5 Facts About Young Children's Eating Habits

Eating habits begin to form in early childhood, so it's important for parents to understand how children experience food and why pickiness is a completely natural part of development.

1️⃣ Pickiness is normal

Preschool children often reject new food multiple times before accepting it. It can take up to 10–15 attempts, so persistence is key.
Tip: combine new foods with already favorite flavors and offer them regularly.

2️⃣ Appetite changes from day to day

The amount of food consumed is not always the same – children may eat a lot one day and almost nothing the next.
Tip: serve attractive, colorful meals and allow children to decide how much they will eat.

3️⃣ Accepting vegetables takes time

Because children are naturally inclined toward sweet and salty tastes, they adapt more slowly to bitter or new flavors.
Tip: offer different forms and flavors of vegetables multiple times – even up to 15 times.

4️⃣ Food is not an appropriate reward

Using food as a reward can lead to emotional eating and weight problems in adulthood.
Tip: instead of food, reward the child with praise or attention.

5️⃣ Parents are the best role models

Children like to imitate their parents' behavior – including with food. If parents enjoy fruits and vegetables, children will likely follow their example.
Tip: eat together and choose diverse, colorful, and healthy foods.

Author: Dr. Maja Berlic, HFL Institute – Center for Child Nutrition
Contact: maja.berlic@hflinstitute.eu