How I Got My Toddler To eat

Is it difficult for you to feed your child? Is he all about milk or food that isn't good for him. |Do you feel like you're giving him and just giving him cookies because then at least he eats?

If yes... I feel you, Mama! I was there only 2 weeks ago, but now my 2 year old is eating on his own and he's choosing to eat healthy foods.

Keep reading and I promise you, you can have a happy meal time too!

From the moment my toddler turned 18 months, I was chasing him with a bowl of food, trying to force feed him. I was continuously stressed because he wasn’t eating enough. He was too skinny, eating the wrongs things. I questioned and over analyzed every aspect. He had days where he ate everything and happily, but the majority of the time I was fighting with him. For a couple weeks, I was throwing him in time out and feeding him in there. I was finally tired of the threats and arguing.

Not only wasn’t he eating, but I was ruining his relationship with food in general and mine as well. Eating should be a positive experience. I knew this, but how could I make it happen? Whenever I enjoyed something, it was usually something I did on my terms. So I did some research and came across this page. Take a couple minutes and read it.

To summarize: It pretty much says... back off, mama! he won't starve. Human instincts to survive will kick in.

It makes sense, right? If I backed off and he didn’t eat for a couple days, his survival instincts would kick in and he’d eat! I am leaving it in his hands and therefore, he has the option and is in charge. We all enjoy expeirences so much more when we choose to do them, not when we are forced or obligated. I had nothing to lose at this point because I was so done with trying to force feed this child, so I went for it. So when he said "no more, mama", I just shrugged and says "Okay."

The first day, he barely ate. Like half a fig bar and some cheese. The boy was on a hunger strike. I did not give him extra milk when he asked and yes, I let him go to bed hungry. But guess what?! He woke up the next morning and scarfed down his breakfast. I was so happy, but I didn’t want to get ahead of myself since he's eaten a full meal before. He didn't eat much the rest of the day, but I let the process continue. I didn't let my fear overcome me.

By the third day, my son ate every meal, seated at his little Mickey Mouse table. Over the week, his eating only continued to improve and he was asking me for food. My two year old was choosing to eat a healthy, balanced meal. He was asking for more food. And he was eating without threats, TV or bribes.

Once Krish's eating got better, so did his behavior. Time out is something that rarely happens these days. He obviously still has his moments, but he listens, is polite and communicates with me.

Meal time at our house has become enjoyable now. I am so happy that I trusted my gut and didn’t let fear get in the way!!

Try it out and let me know what you think!