Food jags are the periods when your child refuses foods that he previously liked or when he requests a particular food over and over again. Food jags are very common in toddlers and preschoolers between two and six years of age. It's a habit that can be extremely frustrating, and it causes concern for many parents. Food jags can happen for many reasons, including boredom with the usual foods, an especial interest in familiar foods, or a means of discovering new independence.

The best way to handle food jags is to remain calm and remember that they are temporary. The more you dwell on the problem food, the longer the food jag may last. Don't force your child to eat something he doesn't want or take away a food he keeps asking for. Instead of forcing your child to eat something he does not want, don't offer it for a while and bring it back down the line. If he wants the same food constantly, give it to him, but include other foods with it for variety and nutritional intake. Most children will become bored with foods after awhile and move on to something new.

You can also include your child in choosing foods at the grocery store and/or preparing foods at home to help them expand their choices. Most importantly, don't worry. Children will generally meet all of their nutritional needs over several days' time. If your child tends to refuse entire food groups over several weeks, speak to your pediatrician or dietitian so you can substitute foods and possibly start a child's vitamin/mineral supplement that will ensure adequate nutritional intake.