Parents of Preschoolers  Discussion Forum

i have twin daughters both 2.5 yrs old. my younger daughter eats very slow if ever she eats. whenever i offer food, my elder daughter eats after some nono but my younger daughter is adamant at not eating i have tried kissing screaming, beating, bribing but no use. if ever she eats, she keeps food in her mouth and do not chew. she is losing weight and had not gained height. pls. hepl me i am very tensed. bin'there replied. It is extremely frustrating for us mothers when kids dont eat; and you are probably at a loss when one sibling seems to like the food and the other doesn't. My daughter is extremely fussy and about the same age. Through experience, I have learnt to observe what is it that stops them from eating. Many times it is a behavioral problem; they are too excited, distracted, not hungry enough, or simply want attention. And sometimes, it may be that the she wants to eat but the food is not tasteful for her!!
Once you are quite sure that they are hungry ( havent eaten for the last 2 21/2 hours), start on the right foot, say that its lunch/dinner time, everbody eat now...I made so and so..yummy who wants to eat..make an atmosphere..get them interested (somewhat)!. I have to sometimes put on my 2 yr old's favorite video!! and then offer them food ( remember presentation matters... so put it on a nice plate, or get colored spoons...whatever works). Give them an opportunity to handle the food and keep helping, be involved, even eat a bite or two from their plates if that helps. And if nothing works...try leaving the food or some cut fruit/yogurt/snacks..right there where they can see it..they might come back to it later ( when the meal times are over) when the pressure is off. The key is to hold off your emotions. if you show how upset you are..it may not help..try ignoring sometimes. You have to try different strategies at different times..sensing their mood.In your case, it might sometimes help to point out that her sister is eating... you can try offering some reward later on. I belive it keeps getting simpler as they get older but the 2- 5 year period is tough for moms!!
Best of luck