Christmas can be an intense and challenging time for children where food is concerned. With so much going on, even the best of eaters can struggle to focus on eating well. But with a constant supply of unfamiliar foods, changes in surroundings, company and routines as well as the excitement of the festivities, eating at Christmas for a child who already finds mealtimes difficult, can be a nightmare situation.  

Here are some of my top tips for helping your child (and you) navigate these food challenges this Christmas:   

1. No surprises. Talk about and look at the foods that will be on offer over Christmas so they know what to expect. Try and include some of them in your meals and craft/play/cooking activities over the next couple of weeks so they have time to become familiar with them.
2. Safe foods. Have foods you know they like available at every meal, even if you don’t think they go with the meal. Take them with you to other people’s houses too. Include some meals that they enjoy in between the festive feasts and consider whether a traditional Christmas meal is right for your family – you don’t have to have Christmas Dinner.
3. Magic words. Remember to let them know, “You don’t have to eat it.” Encourage them to explore but don’t force them to eat.
4. Snacks. Have plenty of nutritious snacks, made up as mini meals, available for when they need them and allow them to eat when hungry.
5. It’s only a few days. Routine often goes out of the window at Christmas and things will improve once all the buzz of Christmas is over. Don’t stress, stay calm and don’t worry about what they are or aren’t eating over Christmas so you can both enjoy it. And that’s what it’s all about isn’t it? Having fun.