Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN)

A child expressing a food jag and a very limited diet is characteristic of which age group?

1. Toddlers

2. Preschool age

3. School age

4. Adolescents

The correct answer is: Preschool age

A food jag, where a child insists on eating only a small number of foods over a period, is particularly common during the preschool age. This behavior typically manifests from around ages 2 to 5, when children are exploring their independence and can be quite particular about their food preferences. During this stage, children often exhibit a strong desire for routine and familiarity, leading them to reject new or unfamiliar foods in favor of those they already enjoy. In contrast, toddlers can be somewhat unpredictable with their eating habits but are still generally more open to a variety of foods. School-age children are usually more willing to try new foods as they become more socialized and influenced by peers. Adolescents, influenced by a variety of factors including body image and social trends, may also exhibit unique eating patterns, but these are often broader and more varied than the limited and repetitive food preferences seen in preschoolers.