Children are eager to help with menu planning, shopping and meal preparation. Kids who have played a part in preparing the meal will be more likely to eat it.

Offer a variety of vegetables, fruits, grains and legumes. Your child may eat a couple of bites at first. When he/she starts wanting more, expand new food offerings. Offer a new food in combination with a familiar favorite.

Cut foods into different shapes. Try carrot sticks one day and carrot rounds another.

Don’t Give Up! Many children will not accept a new food until it has been offered at least ten times.

Children may be overwhelmed by large portions of food on their plate - keep portions small.

Start dinner with cucumber slices, carrots, or greens, with a salad dressing dipping sauce.

Give your child choices within the boundaries you establish. Rather than ask, ‘What would you like for lunch?’ try "Would you like a quesadilla or some fruit salad for lunch?"