6 Ways To Avoid Toddler Food Fights

From condiment gross-outs to tantrums over sandwiches with crust left on, toddler mealtime mania can be difficult to digest, but experts say it's normal.

"Toddlers don't have the same voracious appetites as babies do because they aren't growing at as rapid a rate," says Ann Douglas, author of the book "Mother of All Mealtime Solutions." Therefore, they're more likely to equate high chair time with experiment time.

In fact, Douglas says, "they're little scientists at the dinner table." Whether it's investigating different food textures or establishing a sense of order, eating is simply one way that toddlers explore their world.

Here are six ways you can avoid daily food fights:

Brush up on your biology. They're not just being picky. Toddler taste buds are far more sensitive than yours, so bold flavors like Brussels sprouts, can be overpowering. Hint: If your child gags, he's not faking. If you must, use creativity to sneak veggie servings in. For example, the mashed potato lover will most likely enjoy butternut squash. Dipping sauces and fun shapes can help, too, as well as fine chopping mixed veggies into rice and noodle dishes.

Nibbling counts. Don't take it personally if your little one seems to be on a mealtime hunger strike. He will not go hungry. Provide healthy snacks that your child can munch on during playtime, sometimes this is referred to as grazing. All nutrients count even if they're not eaten at the dinner table.

Cater to control-freak tendencies -- sometimes. Establishing a sense of order manifests itself as a need to follow certain food rules (hence, why grilled cheese must be cut into triangles or different foods cannot touch). If separating peas from carrots will prevent a meltdown, it's worth the few extra prep seconds, says Douglas. Just don't give into every demand, all the time.

Tame texture trauma. How food feels is a big deal for little eaters, so pay attention to preferences. If soft, mushy foods are getting tossed, try offering raw veggies, toasted sandwich bread, and dry cereal (with a side of milk).

A method to food throwing madness. Rule of thumb: Don't expect toddlers to sit patiently for more than 30 minutes. When she starts catapulting carrots, it's a good indication that she is full or bored. It's probably best to let her play with the refrigerator magnets or offer a high chair toy or two, so you can finish your meal.

Table manners are an acquired taste. She's not trying to make a mess; she's trying to figure out how spaghetti "works," reminds Douglas. Let her, so long as you point out and praise examples of good table manners along the way. By the time she's a preschooler, she'll most likely pick up good table habits of those around her.

What are your toddler's quirky food habits?