Okay so you’re diligently saying “I can’t let you do that” when your little one is throwing food but they’re still launching stuff from the table at every mealtime, and you’re like…. “Zazi this isn’t working!”

Well here is my answer.

Saying “I won’t let you do that” is a kind, calm response, and ensuring that you’re not looking too excited because remember, a big response makes our children want to do that something again, it’s exciting!

But, the best way to overcome ANY unwanted behaviour is to prevent it. Prevent it and praise the good behaviour instead, and over time you'll see!

Here are some strategies to prevent food throwing

1. Always provide a discard bowl – put a little bowl on the table and model putting in food that you don’t want. “I don’t want my banana, I’m going to put some in the bowl” If it looks like they’re going to throw their food, you can redirect their arm to the discard bowl.
2. Don’t put too much food on the plate. Tiny amounts of food. You can always top it up later. Gives them less to throw, and when they’re hungry they’re more likely to eat those tiny bits and ask for more. 
3. Sit at the table and model eating all the time. Whenever they’re eating you sit with them. That also means that you’re close enough to catch their arm gently if it looks like they’re going to throw something. “I won’t let you throw that, lets put it in your discard bowl”.
4. Observe and try to predict food throwing. Is it because they don’t like something? Is it because they’re getting tired towards the end of the meal and they don’t want to sit there anymore? Always provide something on the plate that they do like and that’s a safe food. And if it looks like they’re getting bored at the table be ready to catch their arm or just say “It looks like you’re finished, I’m going to help you get down.” This way it keeps them successful, they’ re having a successful time and you can praise them. 

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