How to Introduce New Foods to Your Child

It can be a headache to introduce new foods to your children, especially if they’re picky eaters. Most new parents are not always aware of childhood nutrition facts and the importance of their little ones’ diets. Don’t worry if you’re in that situation, as you’ve come to the right place in PAK Pediatrics. If you are worried about not knowing how to introduce new foods to your child, we can help you. And while we’re at it, we will dispel some widespread myths, such as the need to avoid hypoallergenic foods at early stages.

When should you stop breastfeeding your child?

As mentioned in the video, food introduction at the age of 6 months doesn’t mean you need to stop breastfeeding your child. Children can benefit from maternal milk for a long time, and food introduction is just that – introducing edibles occasionally.

Pediatricians recommend breastfeeding as the exclusive food source for the first six months. After that, babies can eat solid foods, but breastfeeding is still recommended for one year at least.

How to introduce new foods to your child

We all want to instill healthy eating and healthy nutrition habits in our babies, but it can be difficult. What if your kids are picky eaters? They want to eat potatoes but won’t even taste lettuce.

Well, the sooner you introduce new foods to your child, the more chances they’ll enjoy a wide variety of tastes. There’s a biological period called “the flavor window,” which appears to close at around 18 months. While the window is open, your kid is more likely to accept the foods you give them.

Studies suggest that kids between four and six months were most likely to accept and enjoy a vegetable they hadn’t tasted before.

You should not feed your baby with solids before they turn six months, though. Their digestive system might not be mature enough yet, and you may cause unwanted damage. Opt for bananas and pears, for example – they’re soft and easy to eat.

From six months on, there’s a world of meal possibilities (well, not yet) for your child to discover.

What if your kid still won’t eat a variety of foods?

Some people are naturally picky eaters. That means they’re more likely to shut off and refuse to try new foods. But don’t worry, as it’s not a lost battle yet.

1) Premack technique

Have you ever heard of the Premack technique? The principle is basic: an unlikely behavior can be reinforced if the person can engage in a more desired behavior afterward.

Long story short: if you want your kid to eat more vegetables, place two plates in front of them. One will contain the vegetable, say lettuce, and the other one candy or something the kid enjoys. “After you eat the vegetable, you can have a piece of candy.”

Ideally, don’t use candy. The goal is to encourage healthy eating habits in our children!

Most people have used the Premack principle without realizing it. It’s safe to say it has always been popular wisdom. But, knowing the way human learning works, we can benefit from it.

Here are other tips for introducing new foods to your child successfully.

2) Take your time

Rushing things is never a good idea, and childhood nutrition is no exception. Eating needs to be a pleasing activity for the toddler, not an obligation.

Make the space relaxing and warm. Then speak in a gentle voice and introduce the foods to your kid. Let the child explore the meal, whether by smelling or touching it with the cutlery.

Humans get hungry, and kids do too. The kid will eat when they’re hungry, and there’s no need to rush it. It’s always advisable to set timeframes to eat, but don’t push it.

3) Introduce less sweet vegetables and fruits

Babies are born with a predilection for sweet and savory meals. Say you want your kid to eat spinach, for example. You need to introduce it before other sweeter vegetables.

Once you’ve tasted heaven, you probably won’t settle for less, will you? The same goes for children.

4) Keep distractions minimal and eat together

Sit at the table to enjoy lunch or dinner with your kid. Don’t turn on the TV or play loud music. This timeframe should be dedicated to enjoying the food with your loved ones.

If your child sees you eating and enjoying lettuce, spinach, or tomatoes, they are more likely to give them a try. “If mommy likes it, it has to be good.”

Having meals together can also help you bond with your family and develop a healthier attachment style with your toddler. Next time your kid needs to eat, turn off the TV!

Contact PAK Pediatrics to Learn More

These are some of the most basic tips to introduce new foods to newborns and children. If your kid still struggles with eating habits, you might want to contact a pediatrician. Even if they don’t, periodic revisions never harmed anyone, rather the opposite.

Please feel free to contact us at PAK Pediatrics to schedule an appointment or learn more about healthy childhood nutrition. We are always accepting new families at our practices!

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