Whether for a season or for the long haul, all parents – at one time or another – navigate the waters of parenting a child with a selective palate. And as a child’s first cook and coach, you may be surprised just how much your attitude and food presentation influence your child’s early food preferences.

Many parents eagerly anticipate their toddler’s first words. Some may become concerned if their child is not speaking as early as expected. Be attentive, as communication is more than words. Children may communicate by pointing, reaching, crying, smiling, looking at what they want, making sounds, and so on... The following strategies are beneficial for children who seem delayed in their first words and for those who appear to be right on schedule.