In Episode 20 of "Plateful Parenting," co-hosts Christine Santucci and Chanel Kenner, RD dive into one of the most challenging aspects of supporting a child with an eating disorder: meal times. What should be a moment of connection often turns into a battle filled with stress, anxiety, and second-guessing.

Christine and Chanel explore why meal times become so emotionally charged, how to shift the focus from food struggles to connection, and practical strategies to make meals less stressful. Chanel shares expert advice on setting realistic expectations, avoiding power struggles, and fostering a more peaceful mealtime routine.

In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ Why meal times can feel overwhelming and emotionally charged ✅ Practical strategies to create structure and reduce stress at meals ✅ How to handle common challenges like food refusal and distractions ✅ Tips for building connection at the table beyond food

Meal times don't have to feel like a war zone—this episode provides the tools to transform them into moments of trust, support, and connection.

Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.

Resources Mentioned:

• National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) – Education, support, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by eating disorders.
• Ellyn Satter Institute – Resources on raising competent eaters and fostering a positive mealtime environment.
• Equip – Virtual eating disorder treatment providing comprehensive, evidence-based care.
• The Feeding Littles Blog – Tips on intuitive eating and child-friendly mealtime strategies.

Conclusion:

Thank you for joining us for this episode on transforming meal times from battles into moments of connection. Small, consistent changes can make a big difference in your child's recovery journey.

Follow us on Instagram @plateful.parenting.podcast for more insights, and visit platefulparenting.com for additional resources.

You're not alone in this journey—let's take it one meal at a time.