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

A natural way to answer

I'd suggest staying calm and patient, even though it's frustrating. Children often need to see a food many times before they'll try it, so keep offering small amounts without forcing anything. Getting them involved in cooking can help too, as they're more curious about food they've helped prepare.

Key phrases to use

• dig their heels in — to stubbornly refuse to change your position“The more you push, the more they dig their heels in.”
• make a song and dance about it — to make a big fuss about something minor“Just serve it, don't make a song and dance about it.”
• let it get to you — to allow something to upset or frustrate you“Try not to let it get to you when they refuse to eat.”