(HealthDay News) -- It may be alarming to deal with a child who refuses to eat, but this behavior often stems from fear of new foods, the University of Maryland Medical Center says.
Parents should set an example at mealtime by eating a variety of healthy food themselves, preparing foods that are pleasing to the eye, and introducing new tastes -- especially green vegetables -- very early on.
Parents should never coerce a child to eat. Limiting sugary snacks should make the child more hungry.
If a child is fearful of a new food, the medical center recommends sticking with it; eventually, the child is likely to agree to taste it.
