Children are notoriously picky eaters. Kids tend to stick to foods they already know and like, so getting them to try new foods can be challenging, whether you're at home or at a restaurant. Many parents have developed ways to encourage their children to eat new, different types of foods. Here are a few tips that might help you.

How to Encourage Children to Try New Foods

1. Offer a Choice

Forcing a child to eat something usually doesn't go very well. They may throw a tantrum, while you're left frustrated. It also doesn't promote a healthy relationship with food. Instead, give your child some control over what they eat and enlist their help. 

Let them choose among several menu items at a restaurant or dishes that can be cooked at home. Show them enticing photos of the food to persuade them. 

2. Start Small

Large portions can be overwhelming for a child. Start with small portions of the new food. For older children, you might introduce it as a snack. For toddlers, you may want to keep it at one or two bites. 

In addition to restricting the portion, make sure to serve it on appropriately-sized dishware so that it's less daunting. If you're at a restaurant, you can carve out a part of your meal and place it on a saucer or bread plate for the child to try.

3. Be a good role model

Children are more likely to take on habits that they see their parents exhibiting. If you make a point of eating a particular food, your kids are more likely to want to try it. 

Show excitement and pleasure in the food by describing the taste, texture and sensations it creates. As noted above, kids like to choose, so let them decide on a new food for you to try at a restaurant. Then, you can share the experience together.

4. Make It Interesting and Fun

Trying new foods shouldn't be a chore. Turn it into an interesting, fun activity involving the entire family. For example, organize theme nights around different cuisines. 

You can cook dishes from those regions or visit a restaurant that specializes in that cuisine. Kids love outings, so take them to the farmers market or an ethnic grocery. While you're eating, talk about the history of the food or a special memory tied to it.

For authentic, delicious Mediterranean food, visit Sufi’s Kitchen in Atlanta, GA. This Persian restaurant offers a diverse menu that appeals to patrons of all ages, including children. They use the freshest ingredients and all their dishes are packed with unique, robust flavors. Call (404) 888-9699 to make a reservation or check out their website to see their menu.