Fussy eating

Many children go through phases of refusing to eat certain foods; this is particularly common in young children but can occur at any time. It is often a child’s way of exerting their independence and testing the boundaries, and is a normal part of growing up. 

It's natural to worry whether your child is getting enough food if they refuse to eat sometimes. Do not worry about what your child eats in a day or if they do not eat everything at mealtimes. It's more helpful to think about what they eat over a week.

If your child is active and gaining weight, and they seem well, then they're getting enough to eat.

More information on fussy eating is available from NHS England: Fussy eaters - NHS.

Messy play  

How can messy play help?  

Children learn about different food textures,  tastes  and smells by handling them and experiencing them regularly.  Experiencing foods in play can increase acceptance of new foods because there is no  pressure for  them to eat the food.  

Messy play with food helps your child see food as something fun and safe. Through guided play, your child can slowly get used to how food looks, feels, smells, and sounds. Over time, this can help build confidence with food and support progress towards eating.

Our top messy play tips:  

  • Foods  - Start with dry foods and foods that your child likes. Introduce wetter textures and less favoured foods once your child is more familiar with the idea of messy food play.
  • Time  - Whist you should encourage your child to explore foods at mealtimes, it is also important to introduce messy food play activities at other times. This reduces the anxieties associated with being ‘expected’ to eat the food.  
  • Place  - Play somewhere that is easy to clean. Messy mats or plastic sheeting can be  very useful . The easier it is to clean up, the more your child will be able to explore and get messy.  
  • Pace  - Follow your child’s lead by copying what they do with the food. Move to the next step by showing them ideas yourself and encourage them to take a turn.   
  • Communication  - talk to your child about what you are doing. Name the foods, use descriptive words like squish or splat, and sing, smile and laugh!  
  • Have fun  - Show your child you are enjoying the experiences too.

Resources