Picky eating: when to talk to your pediatrician
Picky eating is very common in young children and is often a normal phase. Sometimes, though, it is worth getting professional advice. This page is general information, not a diagnosis.
Reasons to check in
- You are worried about your child's weight or growth.
- The list of foods your child accepts is very short or getting shorter.
- Your child often gags, chokes, or seems to have trouble chewing or swallowing.
- Whole food groups are refused for a long time.
- Mealtimes cause a lot of distress for your child or your family.
What to bring
A few days of notes on what your child ate and drank is more useful than a general impression. A foods chart can double as a simple record.
Trust your instinct
If something feels off, ask. Pediatricians hear these questions every day, and they can refer you to a feeding specialist or dietitian if needed.
This is a family activity and general information, not medical, feeding or nutrition advice. If you have concerns about your child's eating or growth, talk to your pediatrician.
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From the maker: Picky Table is run by the person who makes MunchGuard, a free iPhone and iPad app where parent-approved mealtime videos play while a child is chewing and pause when they stop.