Mealtime Monday: Navigating Mealtime Challenges A BCBA’s Guide to Behavior Issues and Helpful Tools

Hello, parents and caregivers! As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), I know that mealtime can sometimes feel like a battlefield. Whether it’s refusal to eat, throwing food, or simply not sitting at the table, these behavior issues can create stress for everyone involved. Here is some insight on these common challenges and a few handy tools that can help make mealtime a more pleasant experience for you and your littles.

Understanding the Behavior

First, it’s essential to understand that behavior during mealtime often stems from a variety of factors, including sensory triggers, anxiety around new foods, or simply a desire for control. The key is to approach these situations with patience and consistency. Here are some of the most common issues and ways to tackle them:

1. Refusal to Eat: This can stem from a sensory place like a dislike of certain textures or flavors, or from a medical concern. *Always consider this as an option especially if your little struggles with communication.

2. Food Throwing: It's key to remember that behavior is a form of communication; whether expressing dislike for a food (escape) or seeking attention.

3. Getting Up from the Table: This may signal discomfort, a lack of interest in the meal, or a want to return to a preferred activity or item.

To make mealtimes smoother, here are a few tools you could try:

1. Visual Schedules

Visual schedules can help kids understand what to expect during mealtime. By showing them the sequence of events (washing hands, setting the table, eating, and cleaning up), you can reduce anxiety and encourage participation. If your little is familiar with visual schedules, then presenting the activity that comes after mealtime can also be motivating. If your little is just starting out with visuals, consider this First Then Board option.

2. Sensory-Friendly Tableware

If your child is sensitive to certain textures or colors, using divided plates can help. They make it easier to present food in an organized way and can encourage children to try new items without feeling overwhelmed by a mixed plate. Continually presenting food items that your child is not a fan of is the best way to tackle exposure; placing them on a divided plate means that your child might still eat some of the other foods! The suction cups are great for your younger eaters who might be inclined to swipe, but if you're looking for a more mature divided plate option, check these out!

3. Positive Reinforcement Tools

Using a reward chart can motivate children to try new foods or exhibit appropriate table behavior. It provides a visual representation of their progress and reinforces positive behavior with tangible rewards. I would highly suggest this for beginners since it only requires 5 tokens to receive the reinforcer (what your little is working for). If your little is familiar with a token economy and you're building your expectations into everyday life, I'd suggest this magnetic board.

*Check out this cool plate for a combo of 1, 2, & 3 (there are great themes including pirates, outer space, dinos, enchanted forest, and superheroes)!

4.Mealtime Games

Engaging your child during meals can distract from anxiety about food. Mealtime games or conversation starters can make sitting at the table more enjoyable and reduce the urge to get up or act out.

5. Kid-Friendly Utensils

Sometimes, the tools we use can make all the difference. Fun, colorful utensils can make eating more appealing and encourage children to engage with their food, especially if they’re interested in learning to use chopsticks! Or if they love dinosaurs, legos, or mermaids!

Remember, every child is different, and what works for one might not work for another. The goal is to create a positive mealtime experience that fosters healthy eating habits and reduces behavior issues. With a little patience, creativity, and perhaps a few of these helpful tools, you can turn mealtime into a stress-free bonding experience.

Happy dining! If you have any questions or need further support, feel free to reach out. Let’s make mealtimes a joy for everyone!

This post contains affiliate links.