November at Move Play Say: Making Mealtimes More Joyful

If you have a picky eater at home, you are certainly not alone! Whether your child sticks to the same three foods, turns away from anything new, or gets overwhelmed by different textures, mealtimes can end up feeling like a challenge for the entire family.

As a pediatric speech-language pathologist and feeding therapist, I love helping families discover that food exploration can be so much more than taking a bite.

Little Steps, Big Progress: Feeding Tips From a Therapist

Take the pressure off. Trying new foods can feel intimidating for little ones. Instead of asking for "just one bite," invite your child to explore at their own pace. Smelling, touching, licking, or even just having a new food nearby are all wonderful steps forward!

Keep familiar favorites close. Including a preferred food at every meal helps children feel safe and comfortable. Pair familiar favorites with new foods, and remember that seeing a food repeatedly is an important part of learning to accept it.

Make food fun! Build a silly face with fruit, make a cracker tower, or explore the sounds and textures of crunchy, squishy, and smooth foods. Playful experiences help take the pressure out of eating and create positive associations with food.

Let little ones learn by watching. Enjoy meals together whenever possible. Talk about the colors, smells, and textures of your own food, and let your child see you enjoying a variety of foods without expecting them to do the same.

Celebrate curiosity, not just bites. Every interaction with a new food is an opportunity to learn. A child who touches a strawberry today might be ready to taste it another day. Give them time, encouragement, and plenty of opportunities to explore.

A Little Peek Into Our Own Feeding Journey

We have some exciting news to share....We're beginning our solids journey with our own 5-month-old, and I can't wait to bring you along for the everyday moments, first foods, and discoveries.

As both a mom and a feeding therapist, I'm excited to share what we're learning at home while offering practical, evidence-informed guidance to help your family feel more confident, too. Follow along for real-life feeding moments, helpful tips, and plenty of encouragement along the way!

Come Explore With Us at Bite Play Say!

For our little food explorers ages 3–5, Bite Play Say is a wonderful opportunity to discover foods in a playful, supportive environment. Offered every Saturday morning!

Through sensory activities, hands-on food exploration, and fun themed experiences, children can build comfort and curiosity around foods without the pressure to eat. It's all about making new experiences feel safe, enjoyable, and exciting!

Whether you're introducing your baby's first foods or supporting your older child's picky eating journey, we're here to cheer you on. Let's make this November a month of connection, curiosity, and little wins around the table. We can't wait to explore with you!