• Consumer Health: 10 tips for helping a picky eater

Toddler eating

Does your preschooler refuse to eat anything other than chicken nuggets? Would your toddler rather play than eat anything at all? If mealtime is a challenge in your household, you're not alone. Many parents worry about what their children eat — and don't eat.

Nutrition for kids is based on the same principles as nutrition for adults. Everyone needs the same types of nutrients. Children, however, need different amounts of specific nutrients at different ages. If you're concerned that picky eating is compromising your child's growth and development, consult your child's health care provider. 

In the meantime, there are small steps that you can take each day to promote a lifetime of healthy eating. Consider these strategies to avoid power struggles and help the picky eater in your family eat a balanced diet.

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