If he throws his food on the floor, don’t let him, intervene.
While it’s normal for all children to make a mess when learning to eat with fingers, a spoon or a fork, some also tend to throw food on the floor. If you let him, he may think it’s a game, so it’s better to intervene.
Why does he throw his food on the ground?
If he tends to throw his food on the floor, he wants to send a message to you. It is possible that he is no longer hungry or that he wishes to take control of his plate by eating with the spoon for example.
In some cases, it’s just that he wants your attention, so it’s best to show him that he can get it in a positive way and not through punishment. Finally, food can become a game, especially if you tend to enjoy it and laugh when it does.
How to react ?
Before each meal, start by reminding your child of the instructions by explaining to him that the food goes into his mouth and that if he is no longer hungry, it stays on the plate. To support your point, do not hesitate to put yourself at his height, look him in the eyes and try to touch his arm. You can check that he has understood correctly by asking him where the food goes, for example.
If despite everything he throws the food, do not hesitate to take his plate away from him, telling him that it is not done while keeping a calm attitude and avoiding encouraging him to play. You can also for example eat with him to show him good behavior at the table and congratulate him when he does not throw his food.
Find out more: “A table Emma! by Hélène Chetaud.
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