For me I stick to what I have made ... a small amount will be served and if they eat it they receive praise and if they dont too bad. They are not getting a second option. They will not starve to death that is for sure and I am not running a restaurant. I have this little guy very picky and I always ask him to take at least one bite before he goes back playing whit is friends. He's usually cooperative for one bite. I dont push it... it just causes stress for me and the child.