What are the possible causes?
A child may be a poor eater for various reasons. Here are a few examples:
- Normal phase: Children sometimes have a reduced appetite, for example, during a growth spurt.
- Illness or pain: A fever, a cold, or a sore throat can make it difficult to eat.
- Stress or emotions: Tensions at home or at school can have an impact.
- Taste Preferences: Children often have to get used to new flavors.
- Medical issues: Sometimes an allergy, intolerance, reflux, or other condition may be a factor.
- Eating disorder: such as ARFID or anorexia
What can you do on your own?
- Stay calm: Don't force your child to eat.
- Make mealtime enjoyable: Gather around the table together, without any pressure.
- Serve small portions: Large plates can be off-putting.
- Offer variety: Alternate between different flavors and textures. And: Children often need time to get used to new flavors.
- Stick to set mealtimes: This helps your child develop a routine.
- Ask for help: for example, from the child health clinic, a pediatric dietitian, or a speech-language pathologist
When should you see a pediatrician?
Your family doctor or pediatrician will determine whether your child needs a referral to a pediatrician. Call or visit your family doctor if:
- Your child is losing a lot of weight or isn't growing.
- Your child often spits up, vomits, or has pain when eating.
- Your child is very tired or has little energy.
- Your child is showing signs of dehydration (infrequent urination, dry mouth).
What do we do?
At De Kinderartsenpraktijk, we take the time to listen carefully to your story. We conduct a thorough examination of your child, monitor their growth, and consider what might be going on. Depending on the possible cause or causes, we’ll conduct further tests and develop a treatment plan. We can also ask other healthcare providers in our network to assist, such as a speech-language pathologist, dietitian, or child psychologist.