Food is Cool
Supporting big emotions in children at mealtimes can be challenging, but it is important to create a safe and positive environment where children feel comfortable expressing their feelings. The key to supporting hungry children at mealtimes is having boundaries, being consistent and the language used.
You need to be confident and remain calm.
To develop your child’s sense of agency and allow them to have a sense of belonging during mealtimes, allow them to participate as much as possible in mealtime. Ask them to help set the table or ask them to help prepare or cook the food, etc.
Give your child some power – we are working in partnership together. For example, Would you like to pick the green plate or the yellow bowl? You decide.”
Serve one safe food (food you know your child likes) such as toast, pasta, yoghurt, etc.
Then, while remaining cool, introduce the new food. Remember the golden rule, do not talk about the food. Just simply have it on the plate or bowl next to the safe food and offer it. Let the child do the exploring.
Talk about anything but the food!
- What is one thing you enjoyed about today?
- If you could have one superpower what would it be?
- If all your toys could talk, what do you think they would say?
Remember to remain calm if big emotions arise.
- Acknowledge your child, “I can hear that you want the muffin”
- Calmly state what is on the menu now “carrots and pasta are on the menu today”
- Then, move to a yes, chose something your child CAN decide on “would you like a drink of water from a cup or water bottle”
If your child is upset about the new food, that’s ok.
They are allowed to express their big emotions. We need to provide them a safe space to do this.
Keep your boundaries! Consistency is key. Children feel safe and familiar with consistent boundaries.
Here are some strategies that can be helpful:
- Listen actively: When your child expresses their emotions, give them your full attention and listen without interrupting. Show empathy and validate their feelings by acknowledging what they are going through.
- Use positive reinforcement: Praise your child when they show good behaviour or make positive choices at meal times. This will help them feel appreciated and increase their confidence.
- Offer choices: Give your child some control over what they eat by offering them choices between different foods. This can help reduce mealtime conflicts and empower your child to make their own decisions.
- Encourage mindfulness: Encourage your child to take deep breaths or practise other mindfulness techniques to help them calm down when they are feeling overwhelmed.
Stay calm: It’s important to model calm and positive behaviour for your child. Stay calm and avoid getting frustrated or angry, as this can escalate the situation and make it harder for your child to manage their emotions.
Remember, every child is different, and it may take some trial and error to find the best strategies for supporting your child’s big emotions at meal times. Be patient, stay positive, and focus on creating a safe and supportive environment for your child to be able to express themselves.
