If you have a picky eater then you know how challenging it can be to introduce new foods into their diet. Picky eaters are easily overwhelmed by new foods. It is often a reaction to the look, the smell, the texture and the colour of the new foods. Let’s look at Picky Eater Tip #2. Serve new foods in tiny portions.
Why do we serve tiny portions?
Trying new foods can be overwhelming for fussy eaters. How do you stop new foods from being overwhelming for your child? You make them ‘underwhelming’. The best way to do this is to present them:
- in very small pieces
- in very small quantities
- on very small plates or in very small cups
Research shows that picky eaters are more likely to have a try of new foods when they are available in ‘underwhelming’ amounts.
When do you we use Picky Eater Tip #2?
You can serve tiny portions at mealtimes or at snack times. You should model eating the new food but it is really important that you do not put pressure on a child to try the new food.
More picky eating tips
What do I do if I need more help for my Picky Eater?
Picky Eating can cause stress for children, parents and the whole family. Try picky eating tip #2 at home with your child. If you are still concerned about your child’s picky eating habits, then it is best to start doing something about it now. Our ‘YukToYum’ program helps to build adventurous eaters who will try new foods. The program has 3 versions:
- Individual sessions
- Group Therapy Sessions
- Online parent Training
Individual Picky Eater Therapy Sessions
Individual sessions are great when a child first starting therapy for picky eating. It allows the therapist to understand more about the child’s eating patterns and preferences. The therapist can try different strategies to see what the child respond to best.
Group Picky Eater Therapy Sessions
Eating is a social skill and we want picky eaters to still enjoy eating with other people. The group program maintains the fun side of feeding intervention. We know that picky eaters do learn by watching their peers eat some foods. Our group picky eater program runs during the school term on a weekly basis for one hour. The sessions work on feeding as well as have breaks for social games in between. It takes time for picky eaters to introduce new foods back into their eating so this is a fun wait to keep doing therapy.
Online Parent Training
Picky eaters have usually being restricting their food choices for many years before they start therapy. It can take a long time to change their eating preferences. It isn’t feasible for all families to attend feeding sessions on an ongoing basis. That is why we developed an online parent training program. This program teaches parents how to introduce new foods and what strategies are likely to help your child expand their repertoire of foods. The program runs 4 times a year.
We’re here to support you
At OneOnOne Children’s Therapy, we understand the challenges of dealing with fussy eating and are here to support you. We have created our ‘YukToYum’ Program in our feeding clinics in Sydney which is specifically geared towards fussy eaters. Our team of experienced Speech Pathologists and Occupational Therapists in Bondi Junction and Mascot can provide personalised strategies and interventions tailored to your child’s needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your child become a more adventurous eater.
Our clinics are not just a space for therapy – it’s a place where children can discover their strengths, overcome challenges, and reach their full potential.
By combining innovative therapy techniques with a stimulating and supportive environment, we’re proud to offer a holistic approach to paediatric therapy and early intervention that addresses the unique needs of each child we support.
Reach out for support
If you’re concerned about your child’s picky eating or want to learn more about how out ‘Yuk To Yum’ program can help your child, OneOnOne Children’s Therapy is here to help.
Call our Bondi Junction and Mascot clinics on (02) 80657837 or email. You can book a free 30 minute phone call with us to discuss how we can support your child’s unique journey
