The parenting hack that finally gets picky toddlers to try new foods—without a fight

Mealtime with toddlers can feel like a high-stakes negotiation. But one mom’s recent Instagram video is giving parents a surprisingly simple—and stress-free—solution. The theelitemum shared a clip demonstrating a parenting hack that has already earned over 397K views and plenty of approving comments from fellow parents.

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What’s happening in the video

In the video, the mom sits at a table with her toddler, a plate of food in front of her. The trick? She tries the food herself first.

Watching her mom take a bite sparked the toddler’s curiosity, prompting her to reach for the same food. The mom keeps her reactions neutral and lets the child take the lead, allowing the toddler to try each food item at their own pace. Before long, the little one is picking up the food and eating independently—without any bribery, coaxing, or tantrums.

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Modeling behavior works wonders

According to a study published in The Journal of Law, Medicine & Ethics, eating behaviors begin to develop rapidly during the first years of life, shaped by both biological predispositions and early experiences with food. Children are naturally equipped to learn from the foods offered to them and from observing the behaviors of those around them. When parents eat and enjoy a variety of foods themselves, it provides a model for children to follow, helping them accept new foods more readily without pressure or coercion. Early experiences like these lay the foundation for lifelong eating patterns and preferences.

Parents breathe a sigh of relief

The video has struck a chord with caregivers familiar with the challenge of getting toddlers to try new foods. Many parents have praised the method, noting that it feels practical, low-stress, and easy to try at home. For families looking to expand their little ones’ palates, this hack offers a gentle alternative to the usual mealtime battles.

@_kanya_mathebula — “And she was hungry all this time?😂.”

@ashleyabreu_ — “This is absolutely BRILLIANT my daughter is underweight because this child will not freaking eattttttt this is going to work I can feel it in the mommy bones.”

@zerofour_de — “Most parents don’t realise that one of the biggest keys to successful and healthy eating is sitting down together for the meal or snack. Baby see baby do.”

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Turning mealtime into bonding time

Beyond the practical benefits, this approach also creates shared moments between parent and child. Watching toddlers mirror their parents, try new foods, and gradually gain confidence can transform mealtime from a source of tension into a joyful bonding experience.

For parents looking to encourage healthy eating habits without turning every meal into a struggle, this simple “eat it yourself first” method might be exactly the relief they need.

Source:

1. The Journal of Law, Medicine & Ethics. 2008. “Parental Influence on Eating Behavior.”