Doctor Shares Tips for Addressing Picky Eating in Children
Saturday, March 7, 2026 09:49 WIB
Jakarta (ANTARA) – Pediatrician Dr. Ian Suryadi Suteja, M.Med Sc, Sp.A, has offered guidance for parents struggling with children who are overly selective about their food, a common issue often referred to as “picky eating.” Addressing picky eating is vital for ensuring children receive adequate nutrition for healthy growth and development.
During a health discussion in Jakarta on Friday, Dr. Ian recommended addressing picky eating through “sensory play” involving various food textures and a gradual “sensory food hierarchy” method.
“We can address picky eating by, for example, incorporating sensory play with a variety of textures daily. You can also learn about the sensory food hierarchy,” Dr. Ian said.
The sensory food hierarchy method helps children become familiar with foods through different stages of interaction.
Dr. Ian, a graduate of Gadjah Mada University (UGM), explained that parents can begin the sensory food hierarchy by placing foods the child dislikes on their plate each day.
This allows the child to become accustomed to seeing the food without being forced to eat it. Throughout the sensory food hierarchy process, children typically progress through stages such as looking at the food, showing curiosity, touching it, smelling it, and eventually trying to eat it.
“If your child is a picky eater and refuses to eat meat at all, you should set meat on their plate every day, encouraging them to look at it. It doesn’t matter if they don’t eat it; the important thing is to have it present daily. Over time, the child will become accustomed to seeing it and will likely become curious,” he explained.
Dr. Ian also advised parents to first rule out a cow’s milk allergy in their child, as this is a frequent concern, particularly among picky eaters.
He noted that he often encounters patients who are believed to have a cow’s milk allergy, but testing reveals they do not.
“Keep in mind that most high-calorie milk products contain cow’s milk. However, it’s crucial to confirm whether it’s a true cow’s milk allergy or not,” he added.
To determine if a child has a cow’s milk allergy, Dr. Ian suggested offering it and observing for symptoms such as rash, vomiting, cough, or runny nose. If symptoms appear after consumption, cow’s milk should be temporarily discontinued.
“Give cow’s milk, and if symptoms develop, stop using it for 2-4 weeks. If the symptoms consistently disappear, try reintroducing cow’s milk. If symptoms reappear within 1-3 days, then the child is indeed allergic to cow’s milk,” he said.
Reporter : Sri Dewi Larasati
Editor:
Andilala
COPYRIGHT © ANTARA 2026
