Play with Purpose: Picky Eaters
Caregiver & Child Class Series
This course is designed to support children, and their caregivers learn and implement strategies to reduce mealtime stress and encourage food exploration for picky eaters through the power of play, community, and FUN! Classes are led by a licensed therapist.
Date: Tuesdays 5:00 - 6:00 pm May 12th- June 16th
Who: Children 3-5 years old and their caregivers
Cost: $300 (supplies included)
Course Overview:
This community intervention course aims to support the developmental foundations of healthy eating habits in children aged 3-5 years old. This course helps young kids, and their caregivers navigate the journey towards creating a healthy curios eater. This course is specifically developed for picky eaters aged 3-5 and their families. Course meets once a week and is paired with an asynchronous online course you can revisit course material as many times as needed.
Course Objectives:
Understand the basics of sensory motor development and the impact of a play-based approach to healthy eating habits.
Learn the principles of the SOS Approach to Feeding and how it supports sensory and oral development.
Equip caregivers with practical strategies to encourage food exploration, and strategies to addressing nutrition needs.
Create a supportive community environment for sharing experiences and challenges.
Provide a fun curriculum of noneating food fun to improve your child’s experience of food and eating.
Modules:
Module 1: Introduction to how play impact eating
Understanding the role of movement and play in introducing foods.
Introduce key concepts in sensory motor development.
Practical tips for integrating play and food exploration in every day.
Module 2: Foundations of SOS Feeding Therapy
Overview of the Sequential-Oral-Sensory (SOS) Approach to Feeding.
Step-by-step guide to implementing SOS techniques at home.
Addressing common feeding challenges and solutions.
Module 3: Sensory Exploration and Food Play
Engaging activities to introduce new textures, tastes, and smells.
Using play to make food exploration fun and non-stressful.
Techniques for reducing food aversions and increasing acceptance.
Module 4: Creating Balanced and Nutritious Meals
Simple, kid-friendly activities to peak food interest and create a curios eater.
Meal planning and preparation tips for busy caregivers.
Encouraging participation in meal preparation to foster a positive relationship with food.
Module 5: Building a Supportive Feeding Environment
Strategies for creating a calm and positive mealtime atmosphere.
Understanding the impact of sensory environments on eating behaviors.
Collaboration and support within the community to share insights and encouragement.
Module 6: Monitoring Progress and Celebrating Success Pot Luck
Tracking developmental milestones and progress in feeding skills.
Celebrating small victories and encouraging ongoing growth.
Resources for continued support and professional guidance
This course combines evidence-based practices with hands-on activities, empowering caregivers to support their children's journey toward healthy eating. Contact Dr. McIntyre at courtney@otworks.org with any additional questions. Caregivers will have access to online learning modules to watch prior to class. Once at class we provide hands on practice and fun!