Did you know that there are a growing number of speech-language pathologists who are trained to treat children with aversions to eating or to certain types of foods? A qualified feeding therapist should be able to tell you if your child is simply a "picky eater" or does indeed fall into the category of a "problem feeder". You can begin making mealtime a more positive experience for your child by implementing the following strategies:
- Create a relaxing environment at mealtime (turn down lights, eliminate loud noise, play soothing music)
- Use the same place for all meals
- Follow the same schedule for meals (or as close as possible)
- Involve child in preparation, serving and clean up of meal
- Allow your child to play with, touch and explore food
- Reinforce any positive interaction your child has with food
- Verbally praise and encourage your child through out mealtime
Reference:
Toomey, Kay A. (2002). When Children Won't Eat: The SOS Approach to Feeding
