What's Happening:
Meal-time struggles often involve control, sensory sensitivities, or pressure around eating. When food becomes emotionally charged, refusal increases.
THIS
Option A: Gentle / Connection-Based Response
Use this when emotions are involved.
How to do it:
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Keep the tone neutral
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Remove pressure
What to say:
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"You don't have to eat."
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"Your body knows when it's hungry."
Why it works:
Reducing pressure improves trust with food.
Option B: Trauma-Informed / Nervous System Support
Use this when food refusal is anxiety- or sensory-based.
How to do it:
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Maintain predictability
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Offer safe foods
What to say:
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"This food is safe."
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"You can choose."
Why it works:
Safety supports exploration.
Option C: Calm Boundary + Skill-Building
Use this when mealtime becomes a power struggle.
How to do it:
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Set clear roles
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Stay consistent
What to say:
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"This is what's for dinner."
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"You decide how much to eat."
Why it works:
Clear roles reduce conflict.
