Imagine a friend is at their wit's end with a child who refuses to eat anything. What advice would you offer?

B Natural answer

I’d tell my friend not to panic and to stick to a routine. Children often eat better when meals happen at the same time every day, without snacks right before dinner. I’d also say to model the behavior by eating the same foods yourself and acting relaxed about it. Kids notice that. If a child sees adults enjoying vegetables or trying new dishes, they’re more likely to copy that. Another good idea is to keep offering the food without pressure. You may need to present the same vegetable many times before the child accepts it. I’d avoid bribing or threatening, because that can make food feel like a power struggle. Instead, celebrate tiny wins and move one step at a time. Even tasting one bite is progress. If the child is losing weight or seems unwell, then I’d suggest checking with a doctor.

Key phrases in this answer

• stick to a routine — follow the same schedule regularly“Kids often eat better when you stick to a routine.”
• model the behavior — show the behavior yourself so others can copy it“Parents can model the behavior by eating the vegetables too.”
• one step at a time — slowly and in small stages“Take it one step at a time and start with one bite.”
• keep it low-pressure — keep the situation calm and not stressful“Try to keep it low-pressure so the child does not feel forced.”
• offer small choices — give a few simple options instead of many“Offer small choices like carrots or cucumber.”
• power struggle — a fight over control“Dinner should not become a power struggle.”