How to Un Picky Your Picky Eater

You’ve tried everything — exposure, rewards, therapy — and your child still won’t eat? There’s a reason. In this episode, I’m sharing the 5 most commonly missed medical reasons behind picky eating — the ones I see all the time after families have hit dead ends with other approaches: 👅 Oral motor issues (it’s not just behavior if chewing is hard) 😮‍💨 Breathing difficulties (like enlarged tonsils or mouth breathing) 💩 Gut problems (reflux, constipation, dysbiosis) 🧬 Food sensitivities and allergies (even subtle ones) 🧪 Toxic load (chemicals, dyes, and additives that dysregulate the nervous system) 👉 If no one has looked into these, your child may not be stubborn — they may just feel unsafe around food. You’ll also learn: • What red flags to watch for in each category • How to ask better questions at your child’s next appointment • Why behavior-based feeding therapy often fails — and what to do instead 🎧 Plus, I’ll walk you through what a functional feeding evaluation looks like and how to finally get answers. Take the quiz at thepickyeaterstest.com to find your child’s eating stage — and discover whether hidden root causes might be holding them back.

“Don’t worry… they’ll grow out of it.” That might be true — but only sometimes. And waiting too long when your child actually needs help can make things way harder down the line. In this episode, I’m walking you through: ✅ 3 green flags that mean it’s safe to wait 🚩 And 3 red flags that mean it’s time to act — now We’ll talk about: • What a “developmentally normal” picky eater actually looks like • How to tell if your child’s food list is stuck or shrinking • When meal stress, fear, and meltdowns are signals you shouldn’t ignore If you’ve been feeling unsure, this will give you the clarity and confidence you need to make the right next move for your child — not someone else’s. 🎧 Not sure where your child stands? Take the free quiz at thepickyeaterstest.com and find out whether they’re in the Fearful, Stuck, or Curious stage — and what support will help them thrive.

“Just one bite won’t hurt…” But what if that tiny moment of pressure is the very thing making your child more resistant? In this episode, I’m sharing why well-meaning strategies like “just try it for Mommy” or “you can’t leave the table until you take a bite” actually create more fear and shutdown — and what to say instead to help your child move from resistance to curiosity. You’ll learn: 🚫 How forcing a bite disconnects your child from hunger cues 🚫 Why pressure activates their nervous system (and kills appetite) 🚫 The hidden message your child hears when eating becomes a performance And most importantly: ✅ 3 things you can start doing today to build trust, safety, and progress at the table. 🎧 Take the free quiz at thepickyeaterstest.com to find out your child’s eating level and get strategies that match where they are — not where they “should” be.

Tried sticker charts, bite counts, hiding veggies, even therapy — and still stuck? You’re not doing it wrong. You’re just working with the wrong approach. In this episode, I’ll break down the 4 biggest reasons most feeding strategies fall short (even the ones recommended by professionals) — and what to do instead if you want lasting change. Here’s what we unpack: 🚫 Why focusing only on behavior backfires 🚫 How ignoring sensory + oral motor skills keeps your child stuck 🚫 Why food refusal is usually a symptom, not the root issue ✅ And the holistic approach that actually meets your child where they are If your gut has ever said, “This can’t be all there is,” — this episode will show you what’s really missing… and how to start making progress. 🎧 Start by taking the quiz at thepickyeaterstest.com to find out which area is blocking your child most — and how to support them from the inside out.

“I can’t afford it.” “I can’t make time.” “I just can’t deal with one more thing.” Sound familiar? In this episode, I’m diving into the most powerful mindset shift I teach my clients — and the one that completely changes the feeding therapy journey: → From ‘I can’t’ to ‘How can I?’ Because “I can’t” slams the door shut. But “How can I?” cracks it open just enough for possibility to walk in. We’ll talk about: 💥 Why your brain literally stops problem-solving when you say “I can’t” 💥 The truth about what’s really stopping families from getting help 💥 How to shift out of shame and into empowered action If you’re feeling stuck — financially, emotionally, or logistically — this episode will help you find a way forward. It’s not about doing it all. It’s about asking better questions. 🎧 Ready to start? Take the free quiz at thepickyeaterstest.com to learn what’s keeping your child stuck and how to move toward progress — one small step at a time.

Rewards, reinforcers, token boards… they might get your child to take one bite — but at what cost? In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what most ABA-based feeding approaches miss entirely: connection. I’ll share my own experience working in an intensive ABA setting, the moment I realized something was deeply wrong, and what’s really required to help kids truly learn to love food. We’ll unpack: ✨ Why compliance doesn’t equal progress ✨ What ABA gets wrong about oral motor, sensory, and gut issues ✨ How to build safety and curiosity instead of power struggles If you’ve been told rewards are the only way… or if your gut says “there has to be a better approach,” this is your permission to trust it. Because your child deserves more than a sticker for swallowing. 🎧 Ready to go beyond behavior? Take the quiz at thepickyeaterstest.com to discover what’s actually keeping your child stuck — and how to help them move forward.

You’ve tried all the tips, set up a schedule, maybe even done therapy… but meals still feel like a battleground. 😩 Here’s the thing: most parents are unknowingly making one (or more) of these super common feeding mistakes — not because they’re doing anything wrong, but because the advice out there is outdated, confusing, or flat-out bad. In this episode, I’ll walk you through the 5 biggest mistakes I see over and over — plus a bonus one that’s just too important to leave out — and show you exactly what to do instead. These are the mindset shifts and mealtime strategies that actually work (no bribing, no separate meals, no pressure). 👀 If you’ve ever wondered: • “Should I keep offering a food they hate?” • “Why don’t they eat when they’re clearly hungry?” • “Am I making it worse by talking about it?” This one’s for you. 🎧 Take the free quiz mentioned at the end at thepickyeaterstest.com to find out what’s keeping your child stuck — and how to turn it around.

If you’ve ever packed a cooler full of “safe foods” for your child before a birthday party, BBQ, or school lunch—this episode is for you. Christine Miroddi Yoder, pediatric feeding expert, breaks down what safe foods really are, why kids cling to them, and how to tell if this behavior is just a phase or a sign of something deeper. You’ll learn how sameness equals safety in a child’s brain, why certain food textures and packages become non-negotiable, and when bringing safe foods becomes a crutch instead of a bridge. Inside, Christine explains: Why safe foods are usually processed and what that reveals How sensory, oral motor, gut, and mindset issues lead to food rigidity When bringing a safe food is appropriate—and when it’s time to intervene Strategic ways to expand safe foods without creating panic How to keep food experiences positive, even when progress is slow 👣 Take the first step by identifying your child’s eating level at www.thepickyeaterstest.com—because not every strategy works for every eater.

If your child has fewer than five foods in their diet, this episode is a must-listen. In today’s episode, Christine Miroddi Yoder, pediatric feeding expert and creator of the Unlocking Mealtimes framework, dives deep into what’s really going on when a child eats an extremely limited variety of foods. Spoiler: it’s not just picky eating—and it’s not your fault. You’ll learn: Why the “birthday party moment” feels so triggering for parents The 4 root causes behind food refusal (and why mindset is the last thing to work on, not the first) How to tell if it’s ARFID, Pediatric Feeding Disorder, or something else entirely Why feeding therapy often fails—and what actually works instead Practical, no-pressure strategies you can try today (plus the #1 thing to stop doing) What kind of expert your child really needs (hint: not all pediatricians understand this!) Christine also shares honest truths about timelines, progress, and what to expect if your child is in the Fearful stage of eating. 💡 Take the free quiz at www.thepickyeaters.com to find out where your child is on the eating journey and get your next best step. This episode is for the parent standing at the birthday party, holding back tears, wondering, “Why is my child the only one who won’t eat pizza and cake?” There’s a reason. And there’s help.

Feeding therapy isn’t just about getting kids to take a bite — and it’s definitely not a one-size-fits-all solution. In this episode, Christine shares the real truth about what feeding therapy should look like, why most therapists aren’t trained in what your child actually needs, and what red flags to watch out for if therapy isn’t working. Whether you’re new to feeding therapy or knee-deep in weekly sessions wondering why progress feels slow — this episode will empower you with the clarity you’ve been missing. Christine breaks down: Why most therapists don’t receive formal training in feeding The major difference between dysphagia treatment and true picky eating support Why behavior-based approaches (like rewards for bites) can backfire The 4 critical pillars of feeding success — and how most clinics miss them What a whole-body, holistic feeding approach really looks like Red flags that therapy might be doing more harm than good Why you, the parent, are the most important piece of the puzzle 👉 Plus: Learn how to find your child’s current eating level (Fearful™, Stuck™, or Curious™) by taking the free quiz at thepickyeaterstest.com — and what next steps to take based on their stage. 📘 Want a program that actually works? Explore Unlocking Mealtimes — our transformational program for families who want lasting change, not temporary fixes.

You wanted kids — but are you actually parenting them… or just trying to survive the day? In this heartfelt and challenging episode, pediatric feeding expert Christine Miroddi Yoder invites you to pause and reflect on what your child really needs — not more therapy, more food exposure, or a perfect plate — but you. This isn’t a guilt trip. It’s a wake-up call. You’ll hear: The difference between wanting children vs. actively parenting them How busyness and burnout can unintentionally disconnect us from our kids A raw story of a family who couldn't slow down — and what that meant for their child 5 simple ways to reconnect without overhauling your whole life Why presence — not perfection — is the real secret to successful mealtimes Whether your child is struggling with food or you’re just feeling emotionally stretched, this episode will help you re-center on what matters most. 👉 Take the quiz at www.thepickyeaterstest.com to discover your child’s feeding level and get personalized support.

BBQs should be fun — but for parents of picky eaters, they can feel like a minefield. In this episode, Christine breaks down why summer cookouts are so tough for selective eaters and shares clear, compassionate strategies to help your child feel safe, supported, and calm (even when the only food on the table is hot dogs and ribs). You’ll learn how to bring anchor foods, what to say to judgmental relatives, and how to support your child’s eating level in the moment. → Want to know your child’s eating level? Take the free quiz at thepickyeaterstest.com.com

Summer is the perfect time to explore food in new, low-pressure ways! In this episode, I share five fun sensory play ideas that help kids feel more comfortable around food—without the pressure to eat it. You’ll learn how to use things like watermelon slime, ice cube excavations, and mud kitchens to spark curiosity and build trust, all while having fun outside.

Going on vacation with a picky eater can feel overwhelming. In this episode, I share simple, practical tips to help you avoid food struggles while traveling. You'll learn what to pack based on your child's eating level and how to keep mealtimes calm, even in new environments.

Is summer making your child’s picky eating even harder to manage? You’re not alone — summer’s lack of routine, sugary treats, loud barbecues, and camp food surprises can quickly turn mealtimes into meltdowns. In this episode, pediatric feeding expert Christine Miroddi Yoder shares 5 essential summer survival strategies to help your picky eater feel safe, stay nourished, and even explore new foods during the most chaotic season of the year. Learn how to: Create a travel snack kit that avoids sugar crashes Handle picky eating at camp with confidence Pack the right foods for barbecues and playdates Build flexibility with challenge foods outside the home Use summer as a launchpad for smoother school-year routines If your child is a fearful, stuck, or curious eater, you’ll walk away with practical tools to make this summer feel less stressful — and maybe even fun! 🎧 Tune in and take the quiz at www.thepickyeaterstest.com to find your child’s feeding level and get personalized next steps.

Is your child stuck in a food rut? In this episode I walk you through 7 small but mighty shifts you can make today to start raising a more adventurous eater. These aren't big overhauls—just micro-changes that can create a major ripple effect in your child's relationship with food. You'll learn how to: ✨  Change the language you use around food ✨  Ditch the “just one bite” bargaining ✨  Create a no-pressure exposure plate ✨  Incorporate playful food exploration ✨  Let your child take the lead at mealtimes ✨  Make food fun, not a chore ✨  Focus on connection before nutrition These ideas are gentle, doable, and designed to meet your child where they are—whether they’re fearful, stuck, or just starting to explore. 🎧  Tune in now and take the first step toward raising a food adventurer. 

In this episode, Christine dives into the all-too-common topic of toddler food strikes — breaking down what’s a completely normal developmental phase and what might be cause for concern. You’ll learn why food refusal often starts around ages 2–3, how it’s actually tied to healthy brain development, and how temporary dips in appetite or food interest are nothing to panic about. But Christine also highlights key red flags that signal it might be more than “just being a toddler,” including extreme emotional reactions, sudden disinterest in food, and eliminating entire food groups. She shares tips for staying calm, creating a steady routine, and offering food without pressure — even when your toddler seems to reject everything. If you’re unsure what’s going on with your child, Christine points you toward the first step: figuring out what type of eater they are — fearful, stuck, or curious — so you can meet them right where they are.

In this episode, Christine explores the strong connection between picky eating and anxiety, explaining how fear and a lack of safety can shut down a child’s ability to explore new foods. She shares how control, sensory overload, and even small perceived threats can trigger fight-or-flight responses that impact eating, offering insights for parents to better understand and support their child.  

Is your child’s picky eating more than just a phase? In this episode, Christine Miroddi Yoder, speech pathologist and holistic feeding therapist, dives deep into five often-overlooked reasons why your child might be struggling with food. From sensory sensitivities and oral motor delays to gut health imbalances, anxiety, and negative past experiences, Christine explains how these hidden factors can impact a child’s relationship with food—and why forcing more bites isn’t the solution. You’ll walk away with clarity, compassion, and a path forward to help your child move from stressed to curious at mealtimes. If you’ve ever thought, “Maybe something more is going on here,” this episode is for you. 🎯 Ready to take the next step? Find out what type of eater your child is at www.thepickyeaterstest.com and get personalized guidance today.

What happens when a child is too terrified to be in the same room as food? In this inspiring episode, Christine shares one of her favorite client success stories – a powerful reminder that change is possible, even when things start off tough. You’ll hear how one child went from only eating purees and gagging at the sight of food… to chewing steak. But the true transformation? It happened when his mom stepped into her power. She went from doubting herself to becoming the confident leader her child needed at mealtimes – making changes so naturally, she didn’t even realize she was doing the “homework.” If you’re feeling stuck or unsure if what you’re doing is enough, this story will give you hope, direction, and maybe even a little nudge to keep going. 🎧 You’ll learn: What true parent transformation looks like Why progress doesn’t always show up in big, flashy moments How confidence and consistency can change the entire family dynamic Ready to step into your role as the expert on your child’s feeding journey? Tune in and be inspired. ✨ Explore your next step at thepickyeaterstest.com or learn more about working with Christine at foodologyfeedingtherapy.com