Helping picky eaters with the use of a Personalised Placemat
Giving little ones their own personalised placemat can reduce mealtime anxiety by creating a low-pressure, interactive environment that encourages children to explore food through sight, smell, and touch. They promote independence, establish routines, and provide sensory engagement.
It is important to avoid pressure during mealtimes, especially when you are trying to introduce new foods. The goal is to reduce stress, and not force eating. It’s also a good idea to let your children see you eating a variety of foods too, so they don’t feel like they are trying them alone.
Encourage Interaction: Use the mat to guide conversations about food, such as asking what they see, smell, or feel.
Sensory Play: Use mats as a “safe space” for new foods, allowing children to move from merely looking at food to touching, tasting, and eating it.
Routine and Independence: Use a personalised placemat as a designated spot at the table to foster independence.
Themed/Engaging Designs: By having colourful, themed placemats you will make sitting at the table more appealing.
“No Thank You” Bowl: Include a spot for children to place unwanted food, which helps reduce anxiety.
A consistent routine when it comes to mealtimes can help create a positive environment, and make your little ones more willing to try new things. Don’t forget that small victories are still a huge step forward. Simply having a bowl of “new food” on the table for everyone to try can be a great start to exploring new tastes, textures and smells.
My next order deadlines are Sunday 5th April & Sunday 19th April 202. You can order directly from www.personalisedbysophie.co.uk.