Meaningful Mealtimes

Practical Strategies for All Young Eaters

Authors: Yev Veverka, Su Christy Baker, Emilie Dupont, Susan A. Ramage, Kelsey Milne

Contents

• About the Downloads
• About the Authors
• Acknowledgments
• Introduction
• I Making the Most of Mealtime
  • 1 Introduction to the Tiered Approach
  • 2 Defining Mealtime Challenges
  • 3 The Big Picture
• II Gathering Information, Setting Goals, and Assessing Progress
  • 4 Starting With Self-Reflection
  • 5 Gathering Information About Your Setting
  • 6 Gathering Information About Children and Families
  • 7 Goal Setting
  • 8 Assessment and Decision Making
• III Strategies for Supporting All Children at Mealtime
  • 9 Building the Foundation for Fulfilling and Meaningful Mealtimes
  • 10 Supporting Communication and Conversation
  • 11 Encouraging Mealtime Participation and Food Interactions
  • 12 Incorporating Additional Goals and Curriculum Content
  • 13 Bridging Connections Between Home and Early Learning Settings
  • 14 Problem Solving and Next Steps

About the Authors

Yev Veverka, Ph.D., BCBA-D
Research Scientist and Behavior Analyst at the Haring Center for Inclusive Education, University of Washington.

Susan A. Ramage, RN, M.N.
Registered Nurse at the Haring Center for Inclusive Education, University of Washington.

Christy Baker, B.S., OTR/L, CLE
Pediatric Occupational Therapist at the Experimental Education Unit of the Haring Center for Inclusive Education, University of Washington.

Kelsey Milne, M.S.
Speech-Language Therapist at the Experimental Education Unit of the Haring Center for Inclusive Education, University of Washington.

Emilie Dupont, M.Ed.
Special Educator at the Experimental Education Unit of the Haring Center for Inclusive Education, University of Washington.

Introduction

Mealtimes are an integral part of daily life, providing opportunities for nourishment, connection, and cultural celebration. This book aims to support children, families, and early learning providers in making the most of mealtimes.

OUR PERSPECTIVE AND APPROACH

We offer a holistic understanding of mealtimes and a proactive, inclusive approach to support children and families. We emphasize the importance of recognizing privilege and listening to the voices of marginalized groups.

MEALTIMES: MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE

Mealtimes are complex and multifaceted, requiring an interdisciplinary approach that addresses the learning, social development, and cultural significance of these moments.

A NOTE ON HOW THIS BOOK IS ORGANIZED

1. Section I: Making the Most of Mealtime
   • Discusses common challenges and the potential enriching mealtime experiences.
2. Section II: Gathering Information, Setting Goals, and Assessing Progress
   • Presents major elements involved in implementing the tiered approach.
3. Section III: Strategies for Supporting All Children at Mealtime
   • Describes how to implement specific strategies to enhance mealtime experiences.

Introduction to the Tiered Approach

Mealtimes should be fulfilling and meaningful for all children. This book explores how adults can help build enriching mealtime experiences and support children’s participation according to their individual needs.

Learning Goals

• Explain mealtime challenges and their impact on participation and learning.
• Describe the current state of mealtime-related support available for young children.

Tier 1: High-Quality Universal Support

Provides foundational supports for all children including, engaging interactions and a structured environment that fosters connection, comfort, and safety.

Tier 2: More Specific, Tailored Supports

Total for children who experience challenges even with Tier 1 support, through tailored strategies and accommodations.

Tier 3: Intensive Support

For children who continue to have difficulties after Tier 2 support, providing the highest level of tailored intervention.

case studies

Sam: Unexplained, Ongoing Picky Eating

Sam, age 3, shows significant signs of picky eating impacting his health and wellbeing. His case highlights challenges faced by children with mealtime adversities and the need for appropriate intervention.

Callie: Medical Challenges with Eating

Callie, who has tube feedings, faces challenges that limit her social interactions during mealtimes. This emphasizes the need for supportive mealtime environments that foster participation.

Summary

The tiered approach, integrating universal support with specific interventions for children who need it, aims to create nurturing and enriching mealtime experiences.

What’s Next?

Chapter 2 focuses on my mealtime challenges faced by young children, their development, and long-term impacts on families and early learning settings.