Why Is My Child a Picky Eater? Causes, Tips, and When to Worry

Have you ever asked yourself, "Why is my child a picky eater?" I know I have! Many parents struggle with mealtimes when their toddler, preschooler, or even school-aged child refuses to eat certain foods. Picky eating can be common in childhood, but the causes can help you find solutions and reduce stress around the dinner table.

Common Reasons Children Are Picky Eaters

• Normal Developmental Stage: Between ages 2 and 6, many children naturally become selective with food. This “food neophobia” (fear of new foods) is an evolutionary survival instinct—it helped protect young children from eating potentially harmful things in nature.

• Sensory Sensitivities: Some kids are highly sensitive to texture, taste, smell, or even the appearance of food. A child might avoid mushy foods like bananas or dislike the smell of broccoli, not because they’re being difficult, but because their senses are heightened.

• Appetite Fluctuations: Children grow in spurts, which means their hunger changes day to day. A child who eats a lot one week may barely eat the next, leaving parents concerned.

• Learned Behavior: Kids often mimic what they see. If mealtimes are stressful, or if siblings or parents avoid certain foods, children may copy those habits.

• Medical or Oral-Motor Issues: In some cases, picky eating can be linked to reflux, food allergies, or difficulty chewing/swallowing. If your child’s food refusal seems extreme, it’s worth discussing with a pediatrician.

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When to Seek Help for Picky Eating

You should seek help if your child:

• has a very limited number of foods in their diet (less than 20 foods)

• refuses entire food groups (fruits, vegetables, proteins)

• has strong preference for food brands and how foods are prepared

• shows signs of weight loss

• struggles with growth

• shows signs of nutrient deficiencies (fatigue, pale skin, slow healing)

• becomes anxious around meals

• mealtimes are a significant source of stress

You may also want to seek help if you've already tried the following frequently recommended strategies with little improvement:

• Offer, don’t force. Repeated gentle exposure to foods increases acceptance.

• Make it fun. Try food art, colorful plates, or involving your child in grocery shopping and cooking.

• Be a role model. Show your child you enjoy a variety of foods.

• Keep portions small. A big plate can feel overwhelming.

• Stick to routine. Regular meal and snack times help regulate appetite.

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The Bottom Line

Know that in most cases, picky eating a normal part of development, but if your gut is telling you to get support, Radiant Moments is ready to help! Our team has speech therapists that are trained in the SOS approach and understand the oral motor skills necessary to support effective and efficient feeding. Fill out our contact form to get in touch!

For more information on feeding and swallowing milestones and potential feeding disorders, visit ASHA's website.