Picky eating phase - how long does it last?

Picky eating typically peaks between 18 months and 3 years - it's a normal developmental phase related to growing independence and 'food neophobia' (fear of new foods). The good news: most kids naturally expand their palate by age 5-6. What helps: keep offering variety without pressure (it can take 10-15 exposures before a child accepts new food), serve at least one 'safe' food they'll eat at each meal, involve them in food prep, eat together as a family, and avoid making separate meals. Don't stress about nutrition on a day-to-day basis - look at the overall week. Toddler multivitamins can help ease parental worry. This WILL pass!