why is my son so small

my son was born 4 weeks before his due date but he weighed 7lbs 13 oz at birth.now he is 8 years old but he appears to be around 5 years old.he simply does not like to eat.what could be wrong with him and what can i do to make him gain weight?

[Renee Radenberg]

From what you wrote down, his weight and height are on the 10th percentile for his age. He is normal but on the small size. To ‘broaden his tastes’ is to engage him in the kitchen more. Children love to be a part of making food. Have him help you with preparation of food and setting the table. Hopefully this will increase his interest in other types of food. Help him make milkshakes (ice cream, fresh fruit or frozen fruit, milk) or yogurt smoothies (yogurt, fresh fruit, and frozen fruit) and then he will have additional calories, protein, and vitamins and minerals. The most important thing is to relax. It becomes the battle of the wits between the child and the parents. Let him eat what he wants. Slowly introduce new foods, and if he does not want it, do not make a fuss over it. Let it go.