How to Encourage Fussy Eaters to Try New Foods

Fussy eating is a common part of early childhood development, and it can be a source of concern for families. At Fireflies, we take a relaxed, respectful approach to food, aiming to create positive mealtime experiences that encourage curiosity and healthy habits without pressure or stress.

Our educators offer a wide range of nutritious options at mealtimes, served family-style to promote autonomy. Children are encouraged — but never forced — to explore new foods, smell different textures, and try small bites at their own pace. This aligns with the Australian Government’s Eat For Health guidelines, which emphasise repeated, pressure-free exposure to support better long-term eating habits (https://www.eatforhealth.gov.au/).

We also integrate food education into our curriculum through gardening, cooking experiences, and food-related storybooks. These activities build familiarity and interest in where food comes from and how it’s prepared. Children might help wash vegetables from our garden, mix ingredients for muffins, or set the table for shared meals — all of which promote positive associations with food.

Our mealtime environment is calm, social, and supportive. Educators model balanced eating, talk about the colours and textures of food, and celebrate small victories without judgement. If a child refuses a food one day, that’s okay — it’s part of the process.

At Fireflies, we also work closely with families to support eating routines at home. We provide strategies like offering new foods alongside familiar favourites, creating colourful food trays, and involving children in food shopping or meal prep.

By creating a positive food culture, we help children move past picky phases and develop a healthy relationship with food that will serve them for life.