Dealing with a picky eater can feel exhausting for many parents as mealtimes often turn into battles. Veronica La Marca, a popular dietitian with over 116,000 Instagram followers, offers practical guidance on this common issue. She points out that certain everyday comments can unintentionally make things worse by adding pressure or doubt. By choosing words more carefully, parents can help foster a healthier relationship with food for their kids.
One common mistake is telling a child they must eat more even when they show signs of being done. This kind of insistence tends to shut down their natural appetite and build resistance over time. Instead of pushing, La Marca suggests gently asking if their belly feels full or still a bit hungry. This approach respects the child’s internal cues and reduces tension around eating.
Another phrase to steer clear of involves bargaining for a specific number of extra bites. Framing food this way turns a meal into a chore rather than an enjoyable experience. Kids may start viewing eating as something to endure instead of exploring new tastes. La Marca recommends inviting the child to simply stay at the table and chat about their day without requiring them to finish everything on the plate.
Doubting a child’s claim of fullness too soon is also unhelpful and can erode their trust in their own body signals. Such comments create unnecessary frustration and confusion during meals. A better response acknowledges the structure of eating times while allowing some independence. Parents can remind kids that the next snack comes later, helping maintain routine without confrontation.
Linking growth or strength directly to finishing a plate adds guilt that no child needs at the table. These statements pile on stress and can make picky eating habits even stronger. La Marca advises a softer wrap-up by encouraging the child to check in with their belly as the meal winds down. It serves as a kind reminder that honors their feelings without force.
When a little one declares they’re full after just a couple of bites, the urge to negotiate more food is strong for many parents. Yet those hard-won extra bites often backfire and intensify selectivity in the long run. Calm and consistent replies work far better to ease stress and rebuild positive associations. Over time, this patient strategy supports kids in developing better eating patterns naturally.
Veronica La Marca emphasizes that mealtimes should feel connected and low-pressure whenever possible. By avoiding coercive language, parents create space for curiosity about food to grow on its own. Small shifts in what we say can lead to big improvements in how children view eating. Trusting a child’s instincts while providing gentle boundaries makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved.
Many families see real progress once they drop these triggering phrases and try the alternatives. Picky eating doesn’t vanish overnight, but reducing power struggles helps immensely. La Marca’s insights remind us that nurturing a relaxed atmosphere benefits both nutrition and family bonds. With consistency, kids often become more open to trying new things without the drama.
What experiences have you had with picky eaters, and which phrases have worked or backfired for your family? Share your thoughts in the comments.
