Food battles usually are not about food. They are about your child’s brain doing its job: protecting them from anything that feels unfamiliar.

In this episode, I share Mikey’s story (a spirited 4-year-old who refused every vegetable), why pressure and “just one bite” backfired, and what is actually normal toddler eating—tiny appetites, changing preferences, and a strong need for control.

You will learn three simple, big-hearted strategies that prevent picky habits:



Let your child decide how much to eat




Let your child choose what to eat from what is served




Build a calm, positive mealtime environment (connection over consumption)




Plus: bonus tips like screen-free meals, predictable snacks, no grazing, and the “No Thank You Bowl” that lowers pressure fast.

Takeaway: When kids feel pressured, intake goes down.



Resources:

Order my new book Toddlers Made Easy

Join The Big-Hearted School Of Parenting

Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram

Get Toddlers Made Easy course





Sponsor:

Acorns Early

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