Holiday Series Part 2: Meal Challenges at Thanksgiving 

Welcome to the second installment of our holiday blog series! If you missed the first where we discussed challenges and solutions for Halloween make sure to check it out here. 

This time we’re back and focusing on Thanksgiving—a holiday that brings families together around the table but can also present unique challenges for children. For many children, especially those with eating difficulties or those that are “picky eaters”, the variety of textures, smells, and noises at Thanksgiving meals can feel overwhelming. But these challenges aren’t limited to children with specific needs. In fact, many children may also find parts of the holiday experience stressful. Children are often in a different environment and being presented with foods that they are not used to. Again though, with a little planning, you can create a more comfortable and enjoyable environment for all children, helping them navigate the challenging elements of Thanksgiving so they can participate stress free and enjoy this special time with family.

Setting Your Thanksgiving Table Up for Success Among Feeding Difficulties 

Prepare Your Child in Advance

Plan to discuss the foods that will be served ahead of time. Gather as many details as you can from your host if you won’t be eating at home. If you’re unable to get specific information, provide reassurance to your child that you’ll do your best to have something they enjoy available. Talk about what to expect during the meal and any expectations that you have for them. This is also a great time to remind them that Thanksgiving is not just about the food, but also spending time with family and friends.

Involve Your Child in Food Prep & Cooking

Engage your child in the food preparation process. This is a wonderful way to introduce them to new textures and smells in a familiar environment, helping to make unfamiliar foods feel less intimidating. If they’re cooking alongside a family member, they might be more willing to try tasting new items as they prepare them.

Make Food Presentation Fun

Get creative with how you present the food. We love a good Pinterest hack and you can find plenty of ideas for festive themes. I think everyone has seen the cheese ball shaped like a turkey or the vegetable or meat & cheese platter resembling a turkey or a pumpkin. Another idea is using cookie cutters to create fun shapes which can also enhance the appeal. Consider using themed plates, placemats, or place cards to add excitement to the meal and many kids love to participate in helping to set up. Lastly, children may also enjoy “family style” serving, where they can demonstrate independence and control to help themselves to what they like.

Set Clear Expectations with Other Family

Before the meal, communicate with relatives about how you approach your child’s eating habits. Let them know not to take offense if your child expresses dislike for certain foods, that the goal is to create a pressure free eating experience and express your appreciation for their understanding.

Avoid Guilt About Your Child’s Eating Habits

Family dynamics can be hard and while well-intentioned they may share their tips and advice on what they think you should be doing. While Aunt Tina may think she knows exactly what to do to get your child to eat – you know your child and what works best for them. Additionally, if you’ve been working with a therapy team on these eating challenges then you are well-versed on the plan and strategies that have been set in place to best support your child. Stay strong moms & dads – you’re doing great! 

Don’t Make Your Child’s Eating the Focus of the Meal

Try to avoid making your child’s food choices the center of attention during dinner. This only adds pressure to you & your child and can make for a stressful meal for everyone. It also lends more to the previous situation where others feel the need to share their unsolicited advice. 

Avoid Shaming or Bribing

Gentle encouragement to try new foods is okay, but persistent pressure can lead to frustration. Avoid shaming your child for not wanting to taste something or for not eating enough. Bribing them to eat—like offering dessert for a certain number of bites—can create a negative relationship with food. Instead, encourage your child to tune into their hunger and fullness signals. 

Be Ready with Backup Options

While you want to encourage children to try what’s on the table, it’s perfectly acceptable to offer familiar foods if they tend to get overwhelmed or have difficulty with unknown foods. Preparing a dish you know they enjoy can help them feel more comfortable in a potentially stressful environment and then takes pressure off of you too.

Consult with a SLP

If you have concerns about your child’s eating habits, consult their pediatrician or reach out to a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) who can evaluate any feeding or swallowing challenges. SLPs specialize in helping children safely eat, accept new foods, and cultivate a positive relationship with mealtime.  If you’re already working with an SLP make sure to touch base with them before the holiday for any specific tips or strategies to best support your child. 

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day remember this –  Thanksgiving is only one meal. So, if for that one meal all your child eats is 5 rolls and a scoop of macaroni & cheese – that is completely fine.