Encourage, Rather Than Punish

Encourage your child to try new things but don't punish. You can sing about the new food, tell a story about the new food or just demonstrate a positive attitude. However, punishing children for not trying new things or making them feel bad will only create more battles.

Children appreciate praise, so demonstrating praise for trying something new; making a big deal out of it will go far. At the same time, you don't want to reward your child for trying something new. Giving your child candy or something sweet in exchange for trying food sends the wrong message. It can also create an addiction to sugary foods.

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Set a Good Example

Of course, the best thing you can do is set a good example by eating a variety of foods. If your children see you trying new things and enjoying a variety of different types of foods-particularly fruits and vegetables-they may be more inclined to follow suit.