December 2006 Establishing healthy eating habits in young children icky eating among toddlers was once considered just a stage. But the latest research shows that millions of children are not outgrowing their early fussiness—and this can lead to unhealthy diets, obesity and a growing number of American kids with Type 2 diabetes. In her new book, pediatric nutritionist Linda Piette helps the parents of young children overcome “pickiness.” She offers tips on making food desirable for kids who don’t want to eat, how much nutrition is enough, and what to do when kids discover food as a way to get attention. She addresses possible reasons for finicky eating that are developmental, social and psychological, and she helps parents and caregivers to distinguish whether a child is behaving like a “normal” toddler or has a more serious problem that needs to be addressed. Piette encourages parents to pay attention not just to what kids eat but how they eat it (see Parenting). She also provides guidelines on identifying food allergies and intolerances and advice for feeding children with special needs. Ultimately, it’s up to adults to set an example of healthy eating for children. But this book can make it easier for parents to protect their kids from the long-term effects of poor nutrition and to help children recognize signs of hunger and fullness and learn to love a variety of foods. Just Two More Bites! Helping Picky Eaters Say Yes to Food (Three Rivers Press, paperback, $13.95) is available in bookstores and online. Front Page Feature | Interchange | Research Review | Elder Issues | Parenting On the Job | A Healthy You | Home