Our fabulous dietitian, Elizabeth Strickland, gave us this tip for Maxwell, who has always been a very picky eater. It's called the "Paper Plate Method" and here's how it goes:
Prior to mealtime, give your child a paper plate and a pencil. Have him/her draw a circle on the plate indicating how much they are willing to try of a new food. No matter how small the circle, let it be OK. Maxwell's first go at this was a circle barely big enough to accommodate a grain of rice. Fill the circle with the food to be tasted. Since they drew it, they have to finish that amount. Then, let them decide if they would like to eat that with the family or some acceptable standby (peanut butter sandwich or whatever you agree on).
Let me tell you, this works! I watched my child eat a full bowl of chili last week and a full bowl of lentils and rice this week, thanks to that method. He is the child that needed every casserole deconstructed with no parts touching and no sauce! And, there he was wolfing down chili with a smile! Seriously!
I hope this little thing can help you get some more nutrients in your child! Happy eating!
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