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How do I handle picky eating?

Parenting Perspective

Fussy eating is a normal phase in toddlerhood and generally transient. Have regular mealtimes with fixed times. Serve a range of healthy foods but let your child choose what and how much of the foods presented to eat. Do not provide alternatives if food is not accepted since this encourages finicky behaviour. Avoid distractions while eating and pressure. Compliment attempts at new foods without fussing over refusals. Regular structure and reinforcement lead to improved eating habits in the long run.

Spiritual Insight

Allah Almighty says in the noble Quran at Surah Taaha (20), Verse 132: ‘And command your family to prayer and bestowed fast thereupon, We (Allah Almighty) do not ask you for any provisions, it is We Who provide for you’ It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 2593, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: ‘…verily Allah Almighty is kind, and He loves kindness and confers upon kindness which he does not confer upon severity and does not confer upon anything else besides it (kindness).’ These references emphasise consistency and kindness when teaching children life habits, including eating.

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