Why Your Child Sniffs New Foods First: Part of Exploring
Sniffing may be a step toward a new food, not a refusal, so give your child time to explore instead of rushing.
Smell is an important clue children use to get to know food. A child who always sniffs a new food before eating it may be using that clue to check whether it's familiar or new, and taking time to get used to it.
Steps toward trying a new food
Children who approach new foods cautiously often get closer to them in steps like these:
- Looking at it first
- Smelling it
- Touching it with their hands
- Taking a small taste
So there's no need to read sniffing as "refusing to eat" right away. It may actually be one step in moving toward the food.
Time to explore instead of rushing
If your child is sniffing a new food, instead of "Hurry up and eat," try asking, "What do you think it smells like?" and give them time to explore naturally. Children experience food through many senses before it ever reaches their mouth.
Last reviewed: 2026-10-07 This article provides general information. Your child's developmental needs and treatment plan are determined through consultation and assessment.