Why It Happens
Toddlers often fear new foods (known as neophobia). Texture, colour and presentation matter — so patience is key.
Neophobia is very common in young children and is considered a normal developmental stage. It often peaks between the ages of two and six as part of their natural caution towards unfamiliar things, which is actually a protective instinct.
Just last week, one of the children in nursery was very hesitant to try broccoli at lunchtime. We did not pressure them; instead, we made it fun by talking about how the broccoli looked like tiny trees. A few minutes later, they picked up a piece and gave it a try. They even asked for more! With gentle encouragement and a positive environment, children often overcome neophobia at their own pace.
Our Approach
- Gentle encouragement: We never pressure children to eat; instead, we create a positive and relaxed environment around food.
- Role modelling: Teachers and peers model trying new foods to make it feel safe and fun.
- Exploration through play: We incorporate food into sensory and creative activities to reduce anxiety and build curiosity.
- Small steps: We celebrate even tiny progress, such as smelling or touching a new food, before tasting.
Quick Tips
- Keep meals relaxed and screen-free: Sit together at the table and chat about the day. Instead of TV or tablets, play a simple “What’s your favourite colour?” game to keep the mood light.
- Offer variety without overload: Serve a familiar favourite, such as pasta, with a small side of roasted broccoli or carrot sticks — just one new food at a time.
- Let kids help with prep — ownership matters: Ask them to wash strawberries, stir pancake batter or choose which fruit goes on their snack plate. Children love being “the chef”.
- Make food fun (colourful platters, shaped cutters): Arrange vegetables into a rainbow on a plate or use cookie cutters to make star-shaped sandwiches. You can even create a “face” with cucumber slices and cherry tomatoes.
- Skip bribery or pressure — trust the process: Say, “You do not have to eat it, but you can touch or smell it,” instead of “You cannot leave the table until you try it.” This keeps the experience positive.
When to Get Help
If your child avoids whole food groups, get distressed at meals, or growth is affected, speak to your GP or paediatric dietitian.
Helpful Resources
- NHS Start4Life – Tips for healthy eating and introducing new foods.
- Solid Starts – Great for ideas on introducing variety and textures.
- Early Years Foundation Stage nutrition guidance