9 year old nibbler

[eric092580]

My girlfriend has a nine year old boy. He is quite well behaved. However, at dinnertime, this goes out the window. He is a chronic nibbler. He will take only the smallest of bites, often spitting what is in his mouth onto the floor, putting food into his pockets, onto the floor, ect. Dinner time is basically a battle of wills. Yelling doesn't work, as with other punishment. Having the idea of a delicious dessert does not work. He loves junk food and will sneak in the early morning before anyone else is awake and tank up. So, there is almost never junk food in the house.

His sister is quite the opposite. She eats and enjoys the yummy dessert afterwards.

[eric092580]

Ok, since the other night, he has been eating great! We'll justhave to wait and see how long this lasts. I talked with him the next day, and he said he was sorry and appologized too. It takes work on both our parts. Thanks everyone.

[Lonelymom]

I learned that forcing kids to eat will cause them to become over weight in the future. Don't push the issue. Also when children are stubborn they will keep fighting until you give up. They want to control some things in there lives and this may be his control. you can't make him eat.

[91004]

I agree with rockrose don't buy junk food only heathy if there is none he has no choice but to eat what is there.  I am surprised that this problem hasnt been resolved he is 9 yr old has he always done this.

[RockRose]

Don't fight over food.  

If he won't eat at dinner,  that's fine.  If there's no junk food in the house for him to eat at other times,  he will eat healthy food at other times.  Unless he is seriously underweight  just ignore that he doesn't want to eat at the table,  and focus on making the dinner table a cheerful and welcoming place.