Mealtimes

 

In order to be able to eat independently and enjoy mealtimes, the environment
needs to be right. Your child needs to have the foundation skills such as being
able to sit in a stable position at the table and being able to use cutlery appropriately.
 
Disruptive mealtimes can cause arguments and stress amongst the family. Some
of the ideas will work for you, but it does depend on the general rules you apply in
your household. If everyone is watching television while eating, one child cannot be
expected to change his or her habits on their own.  

Each household will have different rules for mealtimes. There is no right and wrong. However, consistency helps the child considerably. Young people need to learn the rules of mealtimes as they will need these in order to be able to cope in a variety of social situations such as going to friends for tea, lunchtimes in school and special occasions with grandparents.

Young people need to concentrate on what they are eating to be able to taste their foods. There is evidence that young people eat more high fat food while watching television because they are less aware of what they are eating. Mealtimes are also an opportunity for your family to chat together and have a daily catch up. This provides an ideal opportunity for your child to develop their social skills in a ‘safe’ environment. For example your child can try out jokes to see if they work and others laugh. In addition this time offers an opportunity to practise and improve their conversation skills.