At around what age do children typically become fearful of new things, including food?

The correct answer indicates that children typically begin to exhibit fears about new things, including food, around the age of two. This developmental stage aligns with significant changes in a child's cognitive and emotional development. At this age, toddlers are becoming more aware of their environment and starting to exert their independence. They may show reluctance to try new foods as a natural response to unfamiliarity, which can be linked to their evolving ability to categorize and distinguish between safe and unsafe experiences.

Fear of new foods is a common phenomenon known as "food neophobia," and it often peaks between ages two and six. During this time, children may express anxiety or hesitation about trying foods they haven't encountered before, reflecting an innate survival mechanism to avoid potential dangers. Understanding this behavior is crucial for caregivers to approach food introduction with patience and to recognize it as a normal stage of development rather than a behavioral issue.

Recognizing this pattern helps caregivers facilitate a positive relationship with food and supports the child's gradual exploration of new tastes and textures over time.