38. Combat Criticism, Complaining, or a Kid Who Comes Home Asking to Eat Again with These Tips to Handle Picky Eating at Summer Potlucks.

I would love to be the dietitian whose kids ate anything and everything at a summer barbecue. From marinated meats to grilled veggies to an assortment of mixed pasta salads and fresh green salads, there are so many foods I love about summer...that my kids won't touch.

I recognize that I am not alone in this, especially considering how many times I have seen parents carefully make a plate with the 1-2 foods their child *may* eat.

Besides the distractions of other kids making it hard to sit still and the foods that are likely prepared differently than what's offered at homes, kids -- especially picky eaters -- can really struggle with what to eat when at summer gatherings.

Our kids struggle is our stress, so let's lay down some ground rules for your next summer potluck. With a clear understanding of your role in the feeding relationship and how this applies to social scenarios outside the home (like backyard barbecues or picnics), your family can head to these gathering with a plan and peace of mind that isn't dependent on if and what your picky eater eats.