Dealing With Fussy-Eater Kids While On Vacation
Since I’m in the midst of planning my family getaway, I’ve got to thinking about what my little ones will eat on vacation. We’re visiting some of the most wonderful places in Europe, and the very last thing I want is for them to end up missing out. It’s true that basically, all children can be fussy about food from time to time. That’s why I thought it would be a good idea to make a plan of action.
There’s no way I can stop my kids being a little bit fussy on vacation, but I can plan for just that. When it happens, I know that I will be prepared. Hopefully, with these little ideas, I can make sure that Ava, Ella, and Rose get to try some fantastic food along the way.
Always check the menus in advance
Okay, my first piece of advice is crucial. If you want to avoid a big argument at the table, you need to make sure that you check the menus of restaurants in advance. Personally, I’ve already begun looking at places that are family-friendly ahead of time. Knowing what to expect is key. If you can’t see the kids’ menu, call ahead and ask about it!
Be excited about brand new foods
Your kids will follow what you do. If you’re open and excited about food, your little ones will follow suit. So, here’s the secret: If you want your kids to try new things, you have to introduce them in a fun way. Tell them how great arancini tastes and they might just want to try it too. Give it a go!
Stick to set meal times!
When you’re on vacation, it can be very easy to miss meal times and end up eating whenever you feel like it. While that’s totally fine for adults, it’s not for children. They need to have structure when it comes to their meals, and so you should stick to this at all times.
Use positive reinforcement
Never underestimate the power of positive reinforcement. When your kids try something new, you should reward them. For example, if your little ones are adventurous when it comes to dinner, you could let them have a scoop of gelato for dessert!
Avoid letting your little one’s snack
When you’re vacationing, there’s food everywhere. Your hotel will likely have a bar with a wealth of snacks, not to mention the street food you see when you head out. Beware! Letting your kids snack throughout the day is a big mistake.
If your little ones are already full when they sit down to eat a meal, there’s no way on this planet that they will try new things. Why would they? They are already happy, not hungry, and so there’s nothing you can do to persuade them. Remember this rule and you will never go wrong. Good luck.
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It can be so hard and frustrating. It’s like all the stages they come around eventually after a few years!
Traveling with picky eaters is always a hassle and especially on vacation but we always make sure to pack a few things they’ll enjoy. I love the tip about sticking to meal times also. Kids that are used to a schedule can get a little cranky when their schedules are altered.
These are really helpful tips! My son used to be really picky and it was rough when we’d go out to eat. Thankfully he’s outgrown that stage!
These are great tips. I don’t have any picky eaters anymore, but my girls used to be. It always made eating out an experience.
These sound like some really good tips, I can imagine it can be a bit of a trial making sure you can find food for everyone with fussy eaters.
I have to laugh because I was that fussy eater! lol. My mom would try to be excited about the new tries, but I saw through it! haha. I did always have a three bite rule with my child. And they couldn’t be fast bites. Had to take his time and really taste it. Usually turned out good.
Great tips. My kids can get picky at times. Normally if I can find a place with fries or pizza, they’re good to go!
Travelling with a picky eater can be tricky. I will have to start checking the menus in advance.
These are good tips for kids who are picky eaters. It can be hard to travel with kids, and picky eating makes it harder.
These are great tips! I know kids can be very picky while on vacation. Will share this.
These are all great tips for any parent who has a picky eater. I never had to deal with a picker eater but my two sisters do. It is a great idea to make eating foods fun for them especially when trying new foods. Thanks for sharing the tips.
These are all great tips. I try to keep them away from snacking about two hours before dinner time. I think the idea of rewarding them when they try new food is a good idea too.
My little guy has sensory issues when it comes to food and it’s really hard to find places for us to eat specially when we travel internationally. These are all great tips!
I have two kids and one is somewhat [picky at times. These are some great pointers.
I definitely need to avoid the snacks. My daughter is 2 and so picky.
Thank you for these tips. I have one child that is extremely picky. I will have to try these tips.
These look so good! I could make them myself easily enough I think. Happy Baking and cooking! What are you making this weekend?
I think positive reinforcement can be real helpful. I dont underestimate the power of positive energy and the kids can pick up on that.