How many exposures to a new food may be required before a toddler accepts it?

How many exposures to a new food may be required before a toddler accepts it?

• A. 3-5
• B. 15-20
• C. 25-30
• D. 6-8

Answer: (B)

Toddlers often need many repeated encounters with a new food before they will accept it. This happens because early taste preferences are still forming and there’s a common tendency to be wary of unfamiliar foods, so familiarity gradually reduces resistance. The idea that about 15 to 20 exposures are often required reflects the reality that acceptance typically comes after multiple positive, low-pressure tastings rather than a single trial. In practice, offer a tiny amount of the new food alongside familiar favorites at different meals, keep the mood relaxed, and avoid pressuring. Model positive eating by caregivers and other kids, vary how the food is presented or combined with items the child already likes, and be patient—consistency over weeks matters more than a quick turn. Even if one attempt is refused, continued gentle exposure can lead to acceptance over time.

Toddlers often need many repeated encounters with a new food before they will accept it. This happens because early taste preferences are still forming and there’s a common tendency to be wary of unfamiliar foods, so familiarity gradually reduces resistance. The idea that about 15 to 20 exposures are often required reflects the reality that acceptance typically comes after multiple positive, low-pressure tastings rather than a single trial. In practice, offer a tiny amount of the new food alongside familiar favorites at different meals, keep the mood relaxed, and avoid pressuring. Model positive eating by caregivers and other kids, vary how the food is presented or combined with items the child already likes, and be patient—consistency over weeks matters more than a quick turn. Even if one attempt is refused, continued gentle exposure can lead to acceptance over time.