Toddler is picky, won't eat vegetables: what to do?
⚡ Short answer: At 12-18 months, food refusal is part of developing independence; forcing backfires — offering the same vegetable unpressured 10-15 times, trying different textures, and not reacting is most effective.
Anonymous
13 aylık bebek annesi · Feeding
After 1 year, my baby started being picky, spitting out vegetables. Should I force, how can I make her like them?
Maiyko AI ADVISOR
The real reply from the in-app AI advisor
Dear one, food pickiness starting around this age is very common. Babies 12-18 months begin developing independence and saying "no" is part of it. Forcing generally backfires — the more pressure, the more they refuse, and refusal can become a lasting pattern.
You can try a few things:
* Introduce a new vegetable alongside one they already like, as a tiny piece.
* Try different presentations — sticks, grated, puree, steamed soft, or lightly roasted.
* Offer it on their plate without pressure; if they don't eat, don't make a fuss. Getting to know a food takes 10-15 repeated exposures.
* Add a sauce like plain yogurt or a little olive oil to soften the flavor.
If she spits out vegetables, not reacting is best — drawing attention reinforces the behavior. If growth is good and overall health is fine, there's no need to worry. If narrow eating lasts more than two weeks, check with your pediatrician.
⚕️ Health note: This answer is for general information only; it is not medical advice. Every baby is different — for decisions about your baby's health, consult your pediatrician.
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