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.