Many children go through phases of being picky eaters, but some kids have bigger challenges with eating. How do you know if your child is just a picky eater or a problem eater? Here’s what to look for and how to help.

Picky Eater vs. Problem Eater

  • Picky Eater: Eats at least 30 different foods, but may refuse new foods or certain textures.
  • Problem Eater: Eats fewer than 20 foods, may gag or vomit when trying new foods, brand specific/particular likes, and often refuses entire food groups.

If your child is a problem eater, they may need extra help to learn how to eat a variety of foods.

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Frequent choking, gagging, or vomiting during meals
  • Refusing entire food groups (only eats crunchy or soft foods)
  • Difficulty chewing or swallowing
  • Extreme fear or anxiety about trying new foods
  • Eating fewer than 20 different foods
  • Struggles with weight gain/loss or growth
  • Mealtime battles that cause stress for the whole family
  • Traumatic choking incident
  • Difficulties moving between baby foods, finger foods, and table food
  • Has not weaned off baby foods by 16 months
  • Foods being dropped over time with new foods not replacing
If your child has any of these red flags, it may be time to seek help.

Tips to Help at Home

  • Make Mealtimes Fun: Offer foods in fun shapes or let your child help in the kitchen.
  • No Pressure: Avoid forcing your child to eat. Encourage, but don’t demand.
  • Try, Try Again: It can take 10–15 tries before a child accepts a new food.
  • Pair New with Familiar: Serve a new food alongside a favorite food.
  • Change the Texture: If your child refuses crunchy foods, try soft versions, or vice versa.
  • Set a Routine: Serve meals and snacks at the same times each day.
  • Be a Role Model: Eat a variety of foods in front of your child to show them it’s okay to try new things.
  • Cooking: Allow child to help with cooking in the kitchen and grocery shopping for exposure to new foods.

When to Seek Help: Picky eating is normal, but if your child struggles to eat enough variety or nutrition, early support can make a big difference. If your child’s eating habits are causing stress, affecting their health, or limiting their nutrition, talk to a pediatrician or call Milemarkers Therapy at 928-854-5439 for a free occupational therapy screening. Feeding therapy can help children learn to eat a wider variety of foods in a positive and supportive way.