Happiful April 2021

IF YOU’RE WORRIED
ABOUT YOUR CHILD
More often than not, fussy
eating in young children is
a phase. If you believe it’s a
behaviour that isn’t going to go
away and/or they’re expressing
frustration in the behaviour
themselves, you may benefit
from seeking support from either
a hypnotherapist, a nutritional
therapist, and/or a medical
professional.
“It’s important for parents not
to blame themselves for their
children’s fussy eating habits. It’s
considered normal for children
to be picky about what they eat,
or be ‘neophobic’ and avoid new
or unfamiliar foods,” says Sophie.
“Fussy eating is quite often about
control and independence, and
it will pass. The fact is, most
children become less fussy as
they grow older.
“Food neophobia is thought to
be an evolutionary adaptation
that helps to prevent the
ingestion of potentially harmful
foods until children learn what
is safe to eat. Framing fussy
eating within this context can
help you to see things from your
child’s perspective. Ultimately,
fussy eating habits come down to
control and consistency, which
explains why some children may
favour more foods like pasta and
bread, which in their minds, are
tried and tested in terms of look,
texture, and taste.
“The key to overcoming fussy
eating habits is exposure to a
variety of foods and starting
small,” Sophie says. “It can take
children up to 15 tries before they
form a preference for something,
so consistency is key. When you
want to introduce something
new, make sure it’s not their main
meal, and involve them.”
Sophie suggests turning it into
a game, as emotions of surprise
and delight can make eating
a fun experience. “It takes the
pressure off, by focusing on the
activity, rather than eating itself,
especially if you’re worried about
them going hungry, as you’re still
serving them tried and tested
favourites.”
For parents of picky eaters,
know that you’re doing the
best you can. Mealtimes can be
stressful for both you and your
child, but you’re not alone in
this. Speak to your friends, seek
out fellow parents and support
groups, and share experiences
and tips. The chances are, your
child will start trying new foods
on their own.
And if not, help is available.
Hypnotherapy can be a
successful therapy for adults and
children alike, helping them gain
a better understanding of what
these behaviours are, why they
came about, how to overcome
them and enjoy all the joys food
and mealtimes can bring.
Sophie Parker is a cognitive
hypnotherapist, coach, and NLP
master practitioner. She is the
founder of London-based mind
health and wellbeing practice
The Inner. To find out more and
get in touch with her, visit
hypnotherapy-directory.org.uk
happiful.com | April 2021 | 29