Christmas is pretty stressful for most of us parents – but even more so if your child has some challenges with what they eat, or has difficulty when things get really busy and loud (that’s Christmas!)

Here’s some tips that might help get you through some of those big family meals over the holiday – whether you’re at home or at a restaurant.

1. Let your child know your expectations

Let’s face it, at Christmas your expectations may be pretty small, and may not even be about how much or what is eaten. There’s a lot of out of your control – like the lollies... But, let your child know some basic rules, like “We stay in our seats”, “You need to wait calmly”.

Smaller step: Have the rules shown visually for your child, or role play it beforehand

2. Seat your child away from the main action if needed

If your child gets overwhelmed with the chaos, they may need to sit at one of the ends of the table. Or, even sit at their own small table with other kids if possible. If you’re heading to a restaurant, see if your table can be away from any major distractions (like, the fish tank), and possibly in a quieter corner.

3. Separate the kids

If your children tend to argue together, try to separate them with an adult in between. Or have them seated next to their cool Aunty, Uncle, or cousin :)

4. Have some snacks & activities to get through the waiting

If at home, your child should be pretty busy with presents or other family members, right up to the mealtime. But if at a restaurant, have some of those new toys or activities in your bag for the waiting time. If nothing else works, then a smartphone or tablet is okay when your child is waiting for the food. Be clear with your child that these things are just for “waiting” and get put away when the food comes.

5. Give your kids the food they enjoy

That’s right, just let them choose what they like from what is available – and a few bites at a busy mealtime is okay! While you may have great intentions to load their plate with new foods, Christmas meals are just not the time nor place. (But, if you really can’t resist, allow your child to choose some new foods off your plate if interested).

Smaller step: You might need to bring your child’s foods for Christmas, especially if you aren’t sure that they can be catered for (e.g., they are new to eating certain textures or they eat a narrow range of foods)

6. Praise your child for doing the right things

Even though a big family meal can be hectic, try to catch what your child is doing well and provide that positive attention – even if you have to yell it across the table :)

The evidence: These tips are based on a research study (here), showing that restaurant meals were more successful for children 3-8 years old, when parents used these strategies

Interested in other topics or more help with your child’s eating in 2019?

Feel free to get in touch!

Tips for Christmas Meals