2 1/2 year old refusing to eat, gags on food

[kaylabrooksmom]

I have a 2 1/2 year old girl who will be three in Dec. She is the most picky child to feed and get her to eat anything. She really shows no interest in food, and only has a limited amount of things she will eat. She often refuses to feed herself with a spoon/fork, and to be honest she prefers soft food like baby food. She goes through this type of behaviour when she refuses to eat anything, and will spit food on the floor, mush around on plate or gags on food to the point she vomits everywhere. She nibbles at food, and takes hours to eat someting soo small. She drinks only small quanities of milk with +++ encouragement. I get soo frustated with her becuase i don't know what to do with her. I worry about her health, weight, vitamins, etc. The doctor tells me it is just a phase that most children do at this age, and dont worry but i do, I feel bad if she hasn't had anything to eat all day, and most of it is junk when she does. Any tips?

[margypops]

Yes stop fussing about it especially in front of her, put her food on the plate in front of her and let her get on with it, no feeding, finger foods are good, put it down and walk off or get on with eating your own food. The more attention you give to the matter and it will continue,less words less fuss and concern . The doctor is correct it will pass , help it along by making it less of a concern..she is picking up on it, Good luck

[AnnieBrooke]

You could also have her evaluated for sensory issues related to swallowing.  It might be a literal gag reflex, some kids are totally hypersensitive to the textures of food.  Ask the pedi for a referral  to a specialist.

[tiredbuthappy]

I agree with Annie- it may be a sensory thing. I actually recall going through a phase when I was older where certain foods and textures made me gag- i couldn't control it.

margypop's advice is a good approach to try to. Make meal times matter of fact and a non-issue. If she doesn't want it, don't push it but offer it everyday. I wouldn't cook a separate meal for her, but if she wants a healthy alternative, I'd allow it. For example, if she refuses the peas the family is eating but would eat baby carrots, then I'd allow that. You can also try involving her in the cooking process- some kids respond better to that.  And if you are truly concerned about nutrition, you can give a fortified drink (ensure or something) once a day to make sure she gets the vitamins and nutrients she needs (consult ped before starting though).