Zip Your Lip {Part Two}: 5 Things you can say to your picky eater

When I consult with a family of a picky eater, one of the first things they say to me, after talking about what they shouldn't say{find out here}, is "Well what CAN I say then?"  Luckily, I'm ready with several suggestions for them when they're ready to throw in the towel as it can, at first, seem overwhelming!


Here are five things you CAN say to your child at the table: 

• "There are things on the table you enjoy" 
• "Ice cream is something we don't eat everyday. We can have some after lunch or dinner sometime this week."
• "Make sure you eat enough because we won't be eating again until ___________" {snack, lunch, dinner}
• "It's ok not to like something after just one taste. Sometimes, you need to taste something many, many times before you'll learn to like it. I know you'll learn to like many new foods." 
• "Mmm. I really like this ________. It tastes like the _________ that you like/ate yesterday/had last week."

Words are powerful, powerful things. As much as possible, we need to keep the family table and mealtimes full of positivity in words and actions. The words we speak will eventually translate into more positive interactions, behaviors and a better relationship with food for your picky eater.  Learn more about how our actions and words at the table affect eating. 

 If you're looking to bring positivity back to the table, check out this fun idea for a family game night that can also be a tool for helping your picky eater. Stay tuned to the blog in March as we have a special guest post coming from Skye at Mealtime Hostage on things you can talk about at the table that don't involve food. 

Get immediate access to three more tips for positive mealtimes!

Do you have any other positive words or phrases you say at the table? 



Until next time, keep growing and blooming. 


Jen