FOOD THROWING

Let’s squash this for good!!

If your baby or toddler loves to throw food to the ground or their cup..first let’s learn why and remember it is actually very developmentally appropriate. Here are some reasons your little one may be throwing their food:

-They are full

-They are bored

-They can’t pick up the food

-They are frustrated with their utensils

-They don’t like it

-They love to get a rise out of you seeing your BIG reaction

-They are just learning

-They are overwhelmed with amount on the tray

Remember, food throwing is a behavior. Behavior is communication we have to figure out WHY.

Follow my 4 step plan

Here's what to do in the moment. Think of the acronym CPCC

1.        Stay CALM, act neutral, have a neutral face. They feed off your energy and you don't want them wanting your BIG reaction.

2.        PAUSE when they throw the food. Don't just automatically pick it up and put it on the table. They may love that cause and effect.

3.        Next use a CONSISTENT and clear phrase such as “Food stays on the table” or “You are all-done”

4.        Give them something that they CAN do, “You can leave it right here”, “you can put it in this bowl”, “Your cup goes right here” and pick up their food or dropped cup. I pick it up 2-3x. If it continuous they may be done and meal is over or the spoon does not get replaced.

What NOT to do: Have a BIG reaction or offer them an additional meal or snack right after getting out.

Other tips for outside the table:

Establish a routine and set clear boundaries

• Consistent mealtimes and a calm environment can help babies feel secure and understand what to expect during meals. Set clear boundaries,  but stay patient if they do throw food (I know so much easier said than done). Make sure your little one is coming to the table hungry and you aren’t over-snacking or feeding too close to a bottle.

Use Smaller Portions

• Start with small portions so they don’t feel overwhelmed or too distracted by a large quantity of food.

Model Proper Behavior

• Show them how to eat properly by modeling the right behavior. Babies often learn by watching, so eating calmly and having fun and conversation during meals can help.

Support their current skills

• Are they having trouble self-feeding? Sometimes when older babies or toddlers are practicing with utensils  they may throw the food out of frustration. Same goes for when they can’t pick up that slippery banana. Use appropriate silverware (see below).

Model “all done”

• If you can tell they are “all done” model that to them so they can practice signing and ending a meal appropriately. If they continue to throw food 2-3x, they may be full BUT you also know your child best.

Remember, food-throwing is often part of their learning and developmental phase, and it usually passes as they get older and better at communicating. Keep being patient and consistent!

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