Feeding Therapy
Picky Eater OR Problem Feeder
Many parents would say that their child is a “picky eater”. However, did you know that there is a difference between being a “picky eater” and a “problem feeder”? 20-30% of all children around the world are reported to be picky eaters. Of those picky eaters, about 5% of them are actually “problem feeders”. Both picky eaters and problem feeders often require support from a feeding therapist to learn how to eat a more varied diet. As a parent and/or caregiver, having a picky eater or a problem feeder can be very stressful. In addition, it can cause nutrient deficiencies, constipation, and weight problems for your child.
The Picky Eater
- Typically has 30+ foods in their repertoire of foods they will eat.
- Foods that are lost due to burnout from “food jagging” (when a child will only eat one food for a while) are usually eaten again after a short break of a couple of weeks.
- May fuss when new food is introduced but can typically tolerate it on the plate and may even try it.
- Often eats different foods than the rest of the family, but typically eats with the family at regular mealtimes.
The Problem Feeder
- Typically has less than 20 foods in their repertoire of foods they will eat.
- Foods that are lost due to burnout from “food jagging” (when a child will only eat one food for a while) will not be accepted even after a break.
- Will meltdown when new food is introduced and refuse it.
- Almost always eats different foods than the rest of the family, and often eats at a different time and sometimes in a different location than everyone else.
- Feeding intervention is often helpful for the picky eater and necessary for the problem feeder. If you are concerned that your child is a picky eater or a problem feeder, you should speak to your pediatrician about feeding therapy.