Why Won't My Child Eat?

It's common for children to sometimes refuse to eat at mealtimes, or even to go a whole day without eating much. If your child is losing weight or showing any signs of sickness, consult your pediatrician.

  1. Power Struggle

    • It is common for toddlers to refuse to eat. Children who are 1 or 2 years old have very little control over anything in their lives, so a toddler may refuse to eat because it's one thing he can control. Parents should not fight the child and repeatedly badger him to eat. Present him with food at scheduled mealtimes, and he will eat when he's hungry enough.

    He's Picky

    • Many children are picky eaters, or go through a phase of being picky. Toddlers are especially likely to be picky, but don't cave in to their demands. Serve a variety of foods and set a good example by eating a wide range of foods yourself. Ask your other children to help set a good example by talking about how yummy their food is.

    He's Not Hungry

    • Parents worry when a child refuses to eat regularly, but it may be that your child just isn't on the same feeding schedule as most people. Each child's schedule is different. If the child says he's not hungry, believe him. If your baby is pushing away the spoon or clamping his mouth shut, trust that he's just not hungry. Try again later.

    He's on the Autism Spectrum

    • Children who have autism or other disorders similar to autism tend to have issues with eating. Studies have shown that children with autism who are between 15 months and 4 1/2 years old may refuse to eat or be very picky eaters. Many children who have been diagnosed with a disorder on the autism spectrum don't eat much but still be perfectly healthy.

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