The Airplane Spoon Podcast: Real questions and Real stories about Feeding Children

Most parents spend a lot of time thinking about what to put on their child's plate. But what about what we say about the food once it gets there?In this episode, feeding therapist Sarina Murrell breaks down how the language we use around food — the names we give it, the words we use to describe it, and the emotions we attach to it — shapes how children feel about eating in ways that go far deeper than we realize.In this episode:Why naming food specifically matters — and why "Costco nuggets" and "McDonald's nuggets" are not the same thing to your childWhy hiding vegetables in food often backfires — and what to do insteadHow to introduce cultural foods and unfamiliar food names in a way that feels approachable, not scaryWhy "good food" and "bad food" labels carry more weight than we intendThe truth about "just one more bite" and why it can work against usWhy using dessert as a reward can actually increase kids' obsession with sweetsHow commenting on how much (or how little) a child eats can get in the way of them learning to listen to their own bodySmall shifts in the way we talk about food can make a real difference in how children feel at the table — and this episode is full of practical, easy changes you can start making today.

One of the most common — and most important — questions parents have about feeding their children is: is my child gagging or choking? In this episode, feeding therapist Sarina Murrell breaks down the difference between these two very different responses, what they look like, and what you should (and shouldn't) do in each moment.In this episode you'll learn:Why gagging is a normal, protective reflex — and why you don't need to interveneWhat choking actually looks like and why it's often quieter than you'd expectThe memorable phrases "loud and red, let them go ahead" and "quiet and blue, they need help from you" — and an important note about why skin tone matters when using these cuesWhy some children gag more than others, including children with a history of medical trauma, NICU stays, or feeding/breathing tubesHow sensory processing differences and neurodiversity (like autism) can create a heightened gag response — even without food in the mouthWhen to call 911, when to use back blows, and why CPR training mattersResources mentioned:Consider taking a pediatric first aid/CPR courseWork with a feeding specialist to gradually desensitize a hypersensitive gag reflex

Bottle feeding looks simple — but there's a lot more to it than most parents are ever told.In this episode, feeding therapist Sarina Murrell breaks down everything she wishes every family knew about bottle feeding from the start: why nipple flow matters more than most people realize, a technique called paced feeding that can make a real difference for fussy or reflux-y babies, and what to do when your baby starts refusing the bottle.In this episode:Parent products vs. child products — a helpful framework for choosing feeding gearBottle and nipple types: what actually matters (and what doesn't)Why you don't need to move up in nipple flow — and why faster flow often makes things worseThe link between fast feeds, overfeeding, and refluxThe difference between bottle refusal and bottle aversion — and practical tips for bothWhen to reach out to a feeding therapistWhether you're exclusively bottle feeding, combo feeding, or just introducing a bottle for the first time — this episode is for you.

Walk into any baby store and the cup aisle alone can feel completely overwhelming. Sippy cups, straw cups, open cups, valved cups, 360 cups — how are parents supposed to know what's actually best?In this episode, feeding therapist Sarina Murrell breaks down the most common cup types, explains what's actually happening inside your child's mouth with each one, and gives practical, age-by-age guidance to help you choose with confidence.In this episode:Why the cup your child uses matters for oral motor development — not just spill preventionSippy cups: the difference between hard and soft spouts, and why all-day sipping is worth reconsideringOpen cups: why they're the gold standard, when to start, and how to make it less messyStraw cups: how to know if your child is using a straw correctly Age-by-age cup recommendations from 6 months through preschoolWhether your child is just starting solids or has been using the same cup for years, this episode will help you understand what to look for — and what to let go of.

Every well-child visit starts the same way — your child gets measured, a dot gets plotted, and suddenly you're staring at a percentile number wondering if you should be worried.In this episode, feeding therapist Sarina Murrell breaks down what growth charts actually measure, how they were built, and — just as importantly — what they can't tell us about how your child is really doing with food.In this episode:What a percentile number actually means (hint: higher is not better)The difference between the CDC and WHO growth charts — and why it mattersWhy breastfed babies and children from certain ethnic backgrounds often track lower on US chartsWhat a percentile drop really means, and when it's worth paying attention toWhy a "normal" growth chart doesn't always mean feeding is going wellQuestions to bring to your next pediatrician visitGrowth charts are a valuable tool — but they're just one piece of the picture. This episode will help you understand the full story.

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

Many parents wonder if children should only eat bland foods, or if it’s okay to introduce stronger flavors like spicy or sour.In this episode, Sarina shares real stories from feeding therapy to explain why strong flavors are not off-limits for children—and how curiosity, exposure, and supportive language can help children safely explore new tastes.You’ll learn how to introduce bold flavors in a way that feels safe, playful, and pressure-free.Why children can enjoy strong flavors, including spicy and sourHow curiosity helps children explore new foodsWhy there are no “bad foods”—only new learning experiencesHow adult language influences children’s reactions to new flavorsWhy repeated exposure helps children build their flavor preferencesWhat you'll Learn: Children can enjoy a wide range of flavors—including spicy and sour.Exposure helps children learn what they like and don’t like.Reactions to strong flavors don’t always mean dislike—it may just be new.Flavor preferences change over time.The goal is exploration, not pressure.Tips to Try at Home:✔ Offer small tastes if your child shows curiosity ✔ Use neutral language (avoid saying “you won’t like this”) ✔ Let your child explore flavors slowly ✔ Have a “plan” when trying spicy foods (water, yogurt, or fruit nearby) ✔ Remember—trying a food once is already learningStrong flavors like spicy or sour don’t have to be avoided. With curiosity, support, and safe exposure, children can discover their own unique flavor preferences.

Many parents wonder why their child refuses foods like banana or avocado—even though they seem soft and easy.In this episode, I explain why soft foods are not always easy foods and how foods like banana and avocado can actually be confusing for a child’s mouth. You’ll learn why gagging can happen, why these foods feel unpredictable, and simple ways to help your child feel more confident trying them.Soft foods are not always easy foods. Banana and avocado sit between crunchy foods and purees, which can make them confusing to eat.Gagging can be protective. It often means your child needs more time and feedback to understand the food.Some foods give less feedback. Banana and avocado can feel slippery and hard to control, which may lead to avoidance.Tips to Try at HomeTry the flavor first (smoothies or mixed into purees)Add crunch (chia seeds, sesame seeds, crushed toast)Use stronger flavors (cinnamon on banana, lemon on avocado)Change the temperature (try frozen banana)Model eating the food and keep offering without pressureIf your child refuses banana or avocado, they may not be picky—their mouth may still be learning.With time, practice, and positive experiences, many children learn to manage these tricky textures.You’re not alone—and you’re doing an amazing job supporting your child. 💛

Many parents feel confused when their child once ate a wide variety of foods and later begins refusing foods they previously enjoyed. This change can feel sudden and concerning, but in many cases, it reflects normal development rather than regression.In this episode, we explore how children grow from reflexive eating to intentional eating, how changes in food predictability can affect acceptance, and how developing preferences and independence influence food choices.In this episode, we discuss:Why children may stop eating foods they once acceptedHow changes in texture, taste, and predictability affect eatingThe role of autonomy and developing decision-makingWhy children return to familiar foods when uncertainHow to understand food refusal as part of developmentThis episode offers reassurance and understanding to help parents navigate this common stage with confidence.

If your child refuses vegetables, you are not alone. In this episode, we talk about the real reasons vegetables can be challenging for children, including taste sensitivity, food predictability, pressure around “healthy eating,” and why exposure matters more than actually eating the food.We also talk about:Why children taste bitter flavors more stronglyWhy hiding vegetables can sometimes backfireHow the language we use around food mattersWhy sensory exploration is more important than nutrition talkEasy ways to start introducing vegetablesWhy seeing, touching, and smelling vegetables counts as successThis episode is all about reducing pressure, building trust with food, and helping children learn to feel comfortable around vegetables over time.

Episode 2: How Does Playing with Food Toys Help My Child Learn to Eat?Many parents don’t necessarily disagree with using food toys—but they often wonder:“How could playing with toy food possibly help my child eat better?”In this episode, we explore how pretend play with food can become a powerful first step in a child’s feeding journey—especially for children who feel avoidant, nervous, or upset around meals.You’ll hear real-life therapy stories, including:A child who began feeding therapy while feeling anxious at mealtimes and needing distractions to eat—and how pretend food play helped shift his relationship with food.A child who used stickers and felt foods to explore new foods through play, language, and imagination—before ever tasting them.We’ll talk about why pretend food experiences matter, even though the food isn’t real. Because here’s the truth:Even when the food is pretend, the experience in the brain is real.In this episode, you’ll learn:How toy foods help children build familiarity with new foodsHow playful exposure can change emotional associations with eatingWhy practicing food language like “yum,” “juicy,” and “crunchy” can be so powerfulHow pretend play helps children feel curious instead of pressuredWhy feeding progress doesn’t always start at the tableWe’ll also talk about being strategic with food play—modeling language, keeping it playful, and creating safe opportunities for children to explore foods without pressure.If mealtimes feel stressful right now, this episode will help you see how learning about food can begin through toys, imagination, and connection—long before bites happen.

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.

Welcome to The Airplane Spoon Podcast.In this introduction episode, Sarina Murrell—feeding therapist and director of The Airplane Spoon—introduces the heart behind this podcast and why it was created.If you’re a parent who feels like feeding your child has become overwhelming, stressful, or all-consuming… you are not alone.In this episode, we talk about:Why feeding challenges can feel so heavy for familiesThe real questions parents ask every dayWhat makes feeding more complex than it seemsAnd what you can expect from this podcastThis is a space for honest conversations, real stories, and practical support—without judgment.Because feeding is not just about food.It’s about connection, learning, and helping your child feel safe.A Note about this Podcast: This podcast was previously P Soup: Real Conversations – For Parents, With Parents, About Kids, where we explored a wide range of topics in child development.Those episodes will remain available, as they continue to hold meaningful conversations and stories.As this podcast grows, it is shifting to focus more deeply on feeding—one of the most common and complex challenges families face.

In this episode of P Soup, we’re cooking up a bowl of Gestalt Language Processing Soup.Some children learn language in “chunks” — long phrases, scripts, or song lines — instead of single words first. This way of learning is called Gestalt Language Processing (GLP). It’s a natural, valid, and powerful path to communication.Together, we’ll explore:What it means to be a gestalt language processorWhy echolalia (repeating phrases) is a meaningful step in language developmentHow GLPs move from scripts toward flexible, self-generated speechPractical ways parents and caregivers can support their child’s language journeyUnderstanding GLP can shift how we see our children — from “just repeating” to truly communicating.References and ResourcesMarge Blanc — Author of Natural Language Acquisition on the Autism Spectrum: The Journey from Echolalia to Self-Generated Language, a foundational text on GLP.Meaningful Speech — www.meaningfulspeech.com — A parent- and professional-friendly hub for learning more about gestalt language development.

In this follow-up to our Tube-Feeding Soup episode, I sit down with Michelle, a mom who opens up about her family’s journey with her daughter’s feeding tube. Michelle shares what the process was really like—from the fears and tough decisions to the small victories and moments of resilience along the way.Together, we talk about:What it’s like to face the decision for a feeding tubeHow a family adjusts to the new routines and responsibilitiesThe emotional side of feeding differences—for parents and childrenThe surprising ways tube-feeding can strengthen connection and support growthThis episode is about more than medical care—it’s about family, adaptation, and finding new ways to thrive.Whether you’re a parent walking a similar path, a professional supporting families, or just curious to hear a real story behind the tubes and terminology, Michelle’s perspective offers honesty, hope, and heart.

Tube feeding can feel like a scary or unfamiliar topic—but for many families, it’s just another part of their child’s care and development. In this episode, we’re stirring through the world of feeding tubes: why kids need them, what daily life looks like, and how families navigate the emotional, practical, and social layers that come with it.Whether you’re supporting a child with a feeding tube, considering this path, or just curious to understand more—you’re in the right place.Next episode: We'll be talking with a parent of a child with a feeding tube, sharing what this journey has looked like in real life.

In this episode of P Soup, we stir through the idea of “Parenting Styles” — from the traditional authoritative vs. permissive categories to a more personal, flexible, and strengths-based approach. What if, instead of trying to fit into a style, we focused on what we value and where we naturally shine as parents? We explore a thoughtful model with four parenting strengths — Personal Guidance, Practicality and Results, Reason and Expectation, and Care and Nurturance — and invite you to reflect, connect, and embrace your own unique parenting recipe.

In this episode, we take a thoughtful and compassionate look at what "picky eating" really means — and why that label might not be as helpful as we think. We explore how picky eating often shows up as a natural part of child development, especially for kids who crave predictability in a world of ever-changing flavors and textures. You'll hear practical ideas for supporting children in mealtime routines, creating predictability, building food curiosity, and offering empowering choices.We also talk about when picky eating might be something more — like a feeding or swallowing challenge — and how to know when it’s time to seek extra support. And as a bonus, we dive into the power of labels, and how the words we use to describe our kids can shape their self-identity far beyond the dinner table.If you’ve ever felt confused, frustrated, or worried about what your child will (or won’t!) eat, this episode is for you. Let’s take the pressure off and approach mealtimes with more understanding, empathy, and hope.In this episode, we cover: 🍽️ Why the term "picky eating" is overused — and often misunderstood 🧠 The developmental reasons children may avoid certain foods 🧃 Tips to make food experiences feel safer and more predictable 🛠️ Simple ways to involve kids in food prep without pressure ❤️ How labels shape identity — and what to say instead of "picky"Mentioned:Feeding therapy and the four pillars: medical, nutrition, skill, and social-emotionalThe concept of food jags and predictable eating patternsEmpowering children through choice and ownership at meals👀 Next episode preview: We’ll be cooking up Parent Styles Soup — diving into the unique strengths, values, and challenges that shape the way we parent. Whether you're all about structure, nurturing, logic, or creative freedom, understanding your parenting style can be a powerful tool in showing up with intention.

Screens are everywhere — in our homes, our schools, our pockets. But when it comes to kids, screen time can feel like one of the most overwhelming and guilt-inducing topics out there.In this episode of P Soup, we're diving deep into Screen Time Soup — not to judge or scare, but to bring clarity, curiosity, and compassion to a topic many parents wrestle with daily.We’ll explore:🍲 How different types of screen use affect thinking, learning, and creativity 🍲 What the research says about behavior, emotional regulation, and parent-child connection 🍲 The broader impacts on health, including sleep, movement, and stress 🍲 The nuance — including how technology can be a powerful support for children with developmental differences 🍲 Why human connection is irreplaceable, even in a digital world 🍲 And the key question: Is this screen stepping in where I want to be showing up?This episode is an invitation to think more intentionally about screen time — not from a place of fear, but from a place of love, values, and meaningful connection.

In this episode, we are going to explore the idea that trust is everything—especially for children who are growing, learning, and navigating big emotions. But also for all of us, as people who interact with other people and build relationships.We are going to talk about what trust is and what trust isn’t. Then, I’m going to share my Trust-Based model that I use when I support families and children.And finally, I will paint a picture of trust by thinking about a bridge.Next episode: Screen Time Soup

In this heartfelt episode of P Soup, I sit down with Angshuman, father of Sudipta, as he shares his personal journey through his son’s autism diagnosis. From early signs and challenges to unexpected joys and moments of connection, Angshu reflects on what it means to be a parent navigating the unknown and how important it is to find a support network of people who can guide you along the way.We talk about support systems, school experiences, cultural perspectives, and how fatherhood itself can be reshaped by a child’s unique way of being in the world. Whether you're a parent, educator, or just curious about real-life stories behind the label of autism, this conversation offers insight, honesty, and hope.

In this episode of P Soup, we’re breaking down what is autism really, and what is it not? How has our understanding evolved over the years? I’ll share my personal journey from knowing nothing about autism to working extensively with autistic children and their families.We’ll explore common misconceptions, the unique ways autistic individuals learn and communicate, and the invisible challenges many families face. Plus, we’ll talk about therapy options, representation, and why embracing neurodiversity matters.If you’ve ever wondered what it really means to support an autistic child in a way that respects their individuality, this episode is for you.

Episode 6: Mealtime Soup – The Magic of Reading AloudReading aloud is like a superfood for the brain—boosting language skills, strengthening relationships, and even counteracting screen-time distractions! In this episode of P Soup, I dive into the science and magic behind reading aloud, sharing how it supports language development, emotional growth, and deepens the bond between you and your child.You'll hear: 📚 The 5 key benefits of reading aloud (including brain science & empathy-building!) 📖 Tips for making reading a stress-free, joyful part of your daily routine 📕 My favorite book recommendations for different ages & interestsResources Mentioned:📖 The Enchanted Hour: The Miraculous Power of Reading Aloud in the Age of Distraction – Meghan Cox Gurdon 📄 American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Policy Statement (Nov 2024): Literacy Promotion as an Essential Component of Primary Care Pediatric PracticeBook Recommendations from This Episode:✨ Interactive Books:Press Here – Hervé TulletHigh Five Animals – Sandra BoyntonPeek-a-Who – Nina Laden😂 Silly Stories:Clip Clop – Nicola SmeeBedtime for Chickies – Janee Trasler📚 Longer Stories:Elephant & Piggie series – Mo WillemsWe Don’t Eat Our Classmates – Ryan T. Higgins❤️ Forever Classics:The Very Hungry Caterpillar, The Grouchy Ladybug, Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? – Eric CarleFox in Socks, One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish – Dr. Seuss💬 What I'm Reading Aloud Now:The Little Prince – Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (with my nephew)Blink – Malcolm Gladwell (with my wife)Whether you already read with your child or need a little motivation to start, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration to help you make the most of storytime.🎧 Listen now and let’s make reading aloud a cherished part of your family’s daily life!

Episode 5: Mealtime Soup 🍽️Mealtime is about more than just food—it’s a powerful opportunity to build connection, strengthen family bonds, and support your child’s development. In this episode, we dive into the why behind shared mealtimes, exploring the social, emotional, and cognitive benefits backed by research. We also tackle real-life challenges like busy schedules, picky eating, and screen distractions, with practical tips to make mealtimes more meaningful and manageable for your family.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ How family meals support social, emotional, and language development✅ The surprising academic and health benefits of shared mealtimes✅ Why mealtime routines help kids feel safe and connected✅ Practical strategies for making family meals easier—even with picky eaters and busy schedules✅ Tips for reducing screen time and encouraging more conversation at the tableJoin the Conversation!💬 Have a mealtime success story or challenge? I’d love to hear from you! Email me at [email protected] Next Episode: Reading Books Aloud Soup 📚Reading aloud is one of the best ways to boost your child’s language, literacy, and emotional connection with you. In the next episode, we’ll explore how to make reading time a special, stress-free habit in your home. Don’t miss it!🎧 Subscribe & leave a review if you’re enjoying P Soup! Your support helps more parents find this resource.

In this episode of P Soup, we sit down with Grace, a parent raising her child in a bilingual home. She shares her family’s journey, the joys and challenges of nurturing two languages, and the strategies that have worked for them. We discuss concerns about language delays, balancing exposure to both languages, and how to navigate family and school systems.What You'll Hear in This Episode:Grace’s experience raising a bilingual childCommon myths about bilingualism and language delaysPractical tips for supporting bilingual development at homeThe role of community and extended family in language learningEncouraging a child to embrace both languages without pressure

In this episode of P Soup, we dive into the fascinating world of bilingualism and child development. How do children learn two or more languages? Does bilingualism cause speech delays? What if a child has a developmental challenge—should parents still introduce multiple languages? These are just some of the questions we tackle today.As a multilingual professional working with diverse families in California’s Bay Area, I’ve seen firsthand the concerns, myths, and joys of raising bilingual children. In this episode, we’ll explore how language development works in bilingual kids, debunk common misconceptions, and share practical ways parents can support their child's bilingual journey.What We Cover in This Episode:✅ How children acquire two or more languages✅ Simultaneous vs. sequential bilingualism✅ Code-switching—why it’s normal and beneficial✅ Debunking common myths about bilingualism✅ Supporting bilingual children—practical strategies for parents✅ Encouragement for families navigating bilingualismKey Takeaways:🔹 Learning two languages does not cause speech or language delays.🔹 Code-switching is normal and shows linguistic flexibility.🔹 Bilingualism is a gift—even children with speech delays or disorders can successfully learn two languages.🔹 Parents should speak the language they are most comfortable with to provide strong language models.

In this episode of P Soup, we dive into an important and sometimes challenging topic—understanding when a child's development isn't following the expected path. I break down the three "Ds"—Developmental Delays, Developmental Disorders, and Developmental Differences—to help parents better understand what these terms mean, how they’re identified, and what support might be available.We’ll talk about the emotions that come with navigating these diagnoses, why labels can be both helpful and overwhelming, and how professionals can be more sensitive when sharing information with families. Whether you're seeking clarity about your child's development, wondering about early intervention, or just looking for reassurance, this episode is for you.

In this episode, I explore child development and the stress surrounding milestones. Development is a continuous process influenced by both biological and environmental factors. Milestones are key behaviors most children typically reach at certain ages, however, milestones can create unnecessary pressure.The “milestone mentality” assumes a universal path of development, but factors like exposure to experiences or cultural differences can influence when skills emerge. A single "no" answer in screenings might raise concerns, but it doesn’t always signal a problem.The key takeaway: Development is not a race. Celebrate progress, focus on the whole child, and remember that every child has their own timeline. Instead of obsessing over milestones, embrace each small step forward in the developmental journey.

Welcome to P Soup: Real Conversations – For Parents, With Parents, About Kids. In this introductory episode, I share the story behind the podcast and what inspired me to create it. You'll hear about the types of topics we'll explore—from milestones and tantrums to sensory needs and special education—and what you can expect from each episode. Whether you're celebrating the joys of early childhood or navigating developmental challenges, this podcast is here to support you. Join me as we build a warm and honest space for parents and caregivers just like you. Let's get started!