Dinnertime Defiance

Expert advice on what to do with a defiantly picky eater.

By Jerry Brodlie, M.D.

Q: My daughter, 6, basically refuses to eat anything we have at dinnertime. She simply pouts and stonewalls when we try to get her to eat healthily. I have tried all sorts of kid- friendly foods, so I think it's more of a defiance issue than a food-preference issue. Do you have any advice?

A: Eating problems at that age are often power struggles. And you may be correct about it being a form of defiance. If that's the case, then I would suggest that you make sure that your daughter doesn't feel she can control you by her stubbornness. Make sure she stays at the table until she at least samples the food that you prepare. And when she has done so, you might reward her in some fashion with dessert or a special treat. In other words, you should be stubborn to make sure she does sample the food. Have some patience and that should work after a couple of weeks.

Eating Etiquette >>

All content here, including advice from doctors and other health professionals, should be considered as opinion only. Always seek the direct advice of your own doctor in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of others.

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Comments

Comments (3)

nakidashirley wrote:

My son is a very picky eater. If it's not chicken, hot dogs, french fries,noodles,or even popsickles, he will not eat it. I've tried and tried to get him to eat a vegetable, he want eat. How can I get him to start eating this stuff.

6/10/2010 06:17:01 PM Report Abuse

brantley52 wrote:

SYSTEM THAT WORKS! 1) Have "usuals" with something new (healthy)at each meal. 2) Water or white milk only (they choose) before and during each mealtime. (Choc. milk if eats well.) 3) Tries something new (chews and swallows)= small sweet(if eats well). 4) Tried once, and liked - "up the anti" to 3 or 5 bites for reward. 5) 6 - 10 bites = on menu. 6) Favorite seasoning (salt, pepper, butter) on new meats/grains = acceptance. Decrease later if unhealthy.

1/15/2010 03:31:21 PM Report Abuse

dbec1998 wrote:

Also keep in mind that for about 10% of children, there may be a mechanical problem with the way they use the muscles for the mouth. I am a speech pathologist and internationally recognized resource for oral motor problems. There specific, kind and gentle ways to improve those areas. For more information visit www.beckmanoralmotor.com Debra Beckman, MS, CCC-SLP

12/5/2009 09:04:42 AM Report Abuse