5 Mealtime Myths That May Help You Understand Your Picky Eater

Picky Eaters: Debunking Mealtime Myths Parents of young children often struggle with picky eating. A recent video by pediatric occupational therapist Shannon (@mamaot_shannon) challenges five common misconceptions about feeding babies and toddlers. Shannon, a Doctor of Occupational Therapy and mother of two, highlights the importance of prioritizing breathing and postural stability over eating itself. 'Breathing is priority number one, postural stability is priority number two, and eating is number three,' she states in the video. She explains that while eating may seem instinctual, it becomes a learned motor skill after the integration of rooting, sucking, and swallowing reflexes, typically around six months of age. The video also dispels the myth that eating is a simple two-step process, emphasizing its complexity with 25-32 steps involved. Finally, Shannon encourages parents to allow children to play with their food, stating that 'messy play' is developmentally appropriate for learning and exploration. Shannon's expertise and practical tips offer valuable insights for parents navigating the challenges of picky eating.