1: How do I get my child to try new foods?

How do I help my child try new foods?If this question has been on your mind—you are not alone.In this episode of The Airplane Spoon Podcast, therapist Sarina Murrell explores one of the most common concerns parents have: what to do when a child refuses to try anything new.Through a real story from feeding therapy, Sarina walks through why children often stick to the same foods—and what actually helps them begin to expand their diet over time.If mealtimes feel repetitive, stressful, or discouraging, this episode will help you see feeding through a different lens.In this episode, we talk about:Why trying new foods can feel overwhelming for childrenThe many variables in food (texture, smell, taste, temperature, appearance)Why “sameness” feels safe and predictableWhat happens when children begin to reduce the number of foods they eatHow pressure at mealtimes can make things harderA real story of a child who only ate a few foods—and how things began to shiftKey Takeaways for Parents:Children often need many experiences with food before they are ready to eat itThose experiences don’t always look like eatingLearning to eat includes:TouchingSmellingPlayingExploringTalking about foodRemove the pressure—avoid asking your child to eatModel and expose—let your child see and experience food in different waysProgress is often slow and gradual, and that’s okaySmall wins matterKeep in Mind:If we stop offering opportunities to interact with food, children don’t get the chance to learn.Keep exposing. Keep modeling. Remove the pressure. And look for small moments of progress.If this episode resonated with you, follow the podcast and share it with another parent who might need support around feeding.