Picky eating is one of the most common challenges parents face during the toddler years. In most cases, picky eating is a normal part of toddler development. As children become more independent and aware of their surroundings, it's common for their eating habits to change. Understanding the reasons behind picky eating can help reduce mealtime stress and support healthy eating habits as your child grows. 

Together with Emma Morris, Clinical Nutritionist at Maia Mothers Collective, we have explored some of the most common reasons toddlers become picky eaters and what parents can do to support them.

Is picky eating normal?

Yes. Picky eating is a common developmental stage, particularly between one and three years of age. During this time, children's growth naturally slows compared to infancy, meaning their appetite often decreases. At the same time, toddlers are developing independence, learning to make choices and becoming more cautious about unfamiliar foods. While this stage can be frustrating, it is usually temporary and tends to improve as children become more confident with food and mealtimes. 

Common causes of picky eating
Illness

Just like adults, toddlers often lose their appetite when they're unwell. Viral infections, colds, teething or tummy bugs can temporarily affect how much they want to eat.
If your child's appetite doesn't return once they've recovered, it may be worth discussing with your healthcare professional.

Normal developmental changes

Picky eating often coincides with a period of rapid emotional and behavioural development. Toddlers are learning independence and testing boundaries. Choosing whether or not to eat is one area where they can exercise control, making food refusal a common part of this stage. 

Sensory sensitivities

Some toddlers are more sensitive to the texture, smell, temperature or appearance of certain foods. A child who refuses steamed vegetables may happily eat the same vegetables roasted or served raw. Offering foods in different ways can help children gradually become more comfortable trying new flavours and textures.

Stress and anxiety  

Children are sensitive to the emotional environment around mealtimes.
Pressure to eat, stressful family meals or anxiety around unfamiliar foods can make picky eating more challenging. Some children, including those with sensory processing differences or neurodivergence, may experience additional feeding challenges that benefit from professional support.

How to support a picky eater

While picky eating is often a normal stage of development, there are simple strategies that can encourage positive eating habits:
•    Offer a variety of healthy foods regularly, even if they're initially refused
•    Avoid pressuring or forcing your child to eat
•    Eat together as a family whenever possible
•    Let your child see you enjoying a wide range of foods
•    Introduce new foods alongside familiar favourites
•    Remember that it can take many exposures before a child accepts a new food

When should you seek advice?

Most picky eating improves as children grow. However, it's worth speaking with your GP or an Accredited Practising Dietitian if your child:
•    eats an extremely limited range of foods 
•    avoids entire food groups 
•    has difficulty chewing or swallowing 
•    is losing weight or not growing as expected 
•    becomes highly distressed around mealtimes

Early support can help identify any underlying feeding or nutritional concerns

References: 

• Pregnancy, Birth and Baby: https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/fussy-eaters
• Raising Children Network: https://raisingchildren.net.au/toddlers/nutrition-fitness/common-concerns/fussy-eating
• University of Sydney: https://www.sydney.edu.au/medicine-health/news-and-events/news/2024/07/22/the-science-of-why-your-child-is-a-fussy-eater.html