EPISODE · May 1, 2026 · 28 MIN
7: How do I get my child to actually sit at the table for meals?
from The Airplane Spoon Podcast: Real questions and Real stories about Feeding Children · host Sarina Murrell
Getting your child to stay at the table can feel like one of the most exhausting parts of mealtimes. In this episode, I talk about why children struggle to sit still — and what you can actually do about it. Spoiler: it's almost never just about behavior.What You'll LearnWhy sitting at the table supports digestion, nutrition, and family connectionHow physical comfort (seating position and setup) affects your child's ability to stay seatedWhy sensory sensitivities can make the table feel overwhelmingHow movement before meals can help your child settleWhy having one safe food on the plate mattersHow transitions and hunger timing affect mealtime behaviorTips to Try at Home ✔ Check the seating position — feet supported, table at the right height ✔ Sit in your child's seat and notice what they're experiencing ✔ Offer movement before meals (jumping, animal walks, wall push-ups) ✔ Always include one safe, accepted food on the plate ✔ Give transition warnings before meals and use a visual timer ✔ Check hunger timing — adjust snack and meal schedules if neededFinal Thought: If your child struggles to stay at the table, there's almost always something underneath — a sensory need, a physical discomfort, a transition challenge. Start with one small change, and know that you're doing an amazing job supporting your child.🌐 www.theairplanespoon.com
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7: How do I get my child to actually sit at the table for meals?
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