Introducing new food textures and tastes helps develop fine motor skills and chewing skills for toddlers. But here’s the thing: Toddlers express their independence through eating, and in this case, not eating.
Parents often find themselves overwhelmed and concerned when their toddler rejects purees, puffs, and mashed foods. If this sounds relatable, we’ve got you covered. Here are five tips to follow when introducing new food textures to your little one:
Take it Slow
Introducing too many tastes and textures in a short span of time can overwhelm your toddler. In many cases, it can lead to food aversion and refusal. With a slow and gradual introduction, your toddler will try new foods at their own pace and develop a positive relationship with food.
Help your toddler experience the smells and sensations of new foods, but don’t pressurise them into eating. Research shows that repeated exposure, even if initially rejected, can increase the likelihood of your toddler accepting new textures.
Try Traditional Foods First
When introducing new textures, start with soft and easily manageable options. Most nutritionists recommend starting with single-ingredient purees. They can be made from fruits (bananas, apples, pears) and vegetables (carrots, peas, sweet potatoes, green beans). Purees are easily digestible and can help you identify any potential allergies.
Then, you can look into:
- Soft-cooked proteins, such as minced chicken, turkey, or fish
- Soft-cooked rice, lentils, and beans
- Iron-rich fortified cereals
Toddler snacks, made from organic products, are also great for introducing new textures. Veggie puffs, banana bars, and protein crackers are wholesome choices.
Follow the Morning Approach
Many experts recommend introducing new foods in the early morning hours. Firstly, toddlers are more active and energetic in the morning, thereby increasing the likelihood of acceptance. But more importantly, the morning approach will allow you to identify signs of intolerance and sensitivity throughout the day.
Remember that having an allergic reaction is different than spitting out food due to unfamiliar texture and taste.
Involve Them in Cooking and Preparation
One of the best ways to help develop a positive relationship between your toddler and new foods is to involve them in the cooking and preparation process. When your toddler sees a new food at the dinner table, they might feel overwhelmed or pressured. In comparison, being part of the cooking process can lead to subtle exposure.
This will also help your child see and feel the food at different stages. For instance, if your toddler is watching you make carrot puree, they might get excited to try it.
Don’t Give Up Easily
You must have heard this hundreds of times, but we’ll repeat it: Patience is the key to raising a toddler. When you try new recipes and food combinations, your little one will make faces, show dislike, and downright refuse to eat.
Even if your toddler spits out the food, don’t be discouraged. Studies suggest that toddlers need to try a food 8-15 times to accept it. This is why persistence is key. Try different strategies, such as mixing the new food with something your toddler already likes.
