Written by Lauren Pike, Feeding Occupational Therapist at Western Kids Health. Lauren supports families to achieve positive, relaxed mealtimes. She draws on both her professional expertise and her own experience as a parent to help children explore food at their own pace and build confidence around mealtimes.

Why Christmas Can Be Challenging for Picky Eaters

The holiday season is meant to be full of joy, laughter, and connection, but if you have a child who is hesitant about food, it can bring extra stress. As a feeding occupational therapist and a mum, I’ve walked alongside many families who feel nervous about holiday meals. At Christmas, children are often exposed to foods they see only once a year and might have extended family members making unhelpful comments. All of this can amplify tension around mealtimes for you and your child.

Remember, you know your child best. It’s completely understandable to feel worried, but with a little preparation and a focus on keeping things positive, you can create a celebration where everyone feels comfortable and included.

Practical Tips for a Peaceful Christmas Meal

Here are a few strategies that have helped the families I work with enjoy the holiday season more:

• Bring a safe food. Think of this as bringing a little piece of comfort. Packing a peanut butter sandwich, some frozen nuggets you can pop into the oven, or their favourite yoghurt pouch means your child has something familiar on their plate. It allows them to join in the festivities without feeling pressured to try foods that feel unsafe.
• Feed before you go. This won’t work for every gathering, but arriving with a full tummy can take some pressure off. If your child isn’t hungry, they might feel brave enough to explore what’s on offer, or they might choose to enjoy playing with their cousins and new toys without worrying about food.
• Prepare phrases for unhelpful comments. Unfortunately, not everyone understands that different kids need different approaches at mealtimes. If someone remarks on your child’s eating, having a gentle but firm response ready can help. Some examples:
  • “We trust [child’s name] to know what their body needs.”
  • “We’re comfortable with our approach.”
  • “We all decide what feels right to eat for ourselves.”
  • “Please leave food decisions to us.”

These statements set a respectful boundary and remind others that you and your child are working together on feeding in a way that suits your family.

• Plan Ahead With Your Child. Predictability reduces stress. Spend some time discussing before the day:
  • What foods might be available
  • What else will be happening (games, presents, cousins, activities)
  • What Christmas might look like
• Keep Christmas Fun (Not Food-Focused).
  • Remind children (and yourself!) that Christmas isn’t just about food. Highlight the whole experience- people, connection, play, decorations, excitement.
• Try Low-Pressure Festive Ideas. If helpful, you can introduce festive-themed foods using items they already enjoy: If helpful, you can introduce festive-themed foods using items they already enjoy:
  • Cutting sandwiches with Christmas cookie cutters
  • Offering safe snacks in Christmas cups or plates
  • Adding one “new” food near a very safe food, with zero expectation to taste

Lowering expectations and keeping mealtimes low-pressure helps protect their confidence around food, and allows everyone to enjoy the day.

You’re Not Alone

If Christmas feels overwhelming despite your best efforts, know that support is available. Our feeding team is here to help you and your child achieve stress-free mealtimes, not just during the holidays but all year round. We can work with you to create a personalised plan that builds your confidence and meets your child’s needs.

Have questions about our Feeding Clinic or want to talk through your situation? Call Western Kids Health on (08) 6112 2977 or reply to this email. We’re here if you need us.

On behalf of the Feeding Team,

Lauren Pike, Feeding OT
Western Kids Health