My child does not eat anything, what do I do?

Q: I have a 3 years 9 months old son. His weight is 13 kgs. He doesn't like to eat anything, not even fruits. I have to give him food forcibly. He looks very weak. Whenever he feels hungry, he asks for water. I am very much tensed. Please advise.

A:Thirteen kgs is adequate weight for a 3.5 year old. Never force feed a child. Make food interesting and attractive and encourage your child to feed himself. Do not substitute food with milk. Do not bottle feed. Don't substitute meals with junk food like biscuits or chips. When he is hungry he will eat. If it stops you from worrying, then give him a vitamin supplement.