How to Get Your Picky Eater to Try (and Even Love) Soup!

The Beige Plate Club Issue #2

Photo by Henrique Felix on Unsplash

Hi Friend!

Soup can be a comforting, nourishing, and easy way to pack in nutrients—especially in colder months. But for many picky eaters, soup poses a unique set of challenges: the textures, the mixed ingredients, and even the “unknowns” lurking in the broth can make it a no-go.

In today’s newsletter, I’m sharing my best tips (10 of them in fact!) to help you introduce soup to your child in a way that’s approachable, fun, and tasty!

Why Soup is a Great Meal Option for Kids

Not only is soup a fantastic way to get a variety of vegetables, proteins, and grains into one bowl, but it’s also highly customizable. You can add or omit ingredients based on your child’s preferences and adjust the texture to make it easier for them to eat. Plus, it’s easy to freeze and reheat, making it an efficient meal for busy families.

But how do we make soup appealing to a picky eater? Here’s how:

1. Serve It in Small Portions

Instead of giving a full bowl, start with a small amount—maybe even a small condiment cup. Picky eaters are more likely to try something new if they’re not faced with a large serving. A smaller portion helps reduce the pressure and makes the idea of trying soup more manageable.

Try It: Serve soup in a fun, kid-sized mug, and encourage them to take “sip bites.” They may find this way of eating soup less intimidating than using a spoon.