133 - Is It Just Picky Eating... Or Something More? with paediatric OT Rachael Smith

Boob to Food - The Podcast

Most toddlers go through a phase of picky or particular eating, but how do you know if it’s “just a phase” or something more? If you’ve ever felt confused, frustrated, or unsure about what’s normal when it comes to your child’s eating habits, this conversation is for you.

In this episode, we’re joined again by our much-loved OT Rachael Smith to explore what picky eating really looks like, when it might be a sign of something more serious (like a feeding disorder), and what support is available for families who are struggling.

For those who don’t know Rach, she is a mum to her daughter Olive and son Teddy, a Paediatric Occupational Therapist, and the owner of Therapy Time, a private practice based in Brisbane.

Even before having her own family, she has always been passionate about taking a big picture approach to child development. Rach strongly believes that what we eat has a huge impact on everything and sees this everyday in her clinical practice (and at home).

In this episode, we discuss:

• What’s considered “normal” picky eating vs a feeding problem
• Why so many toddlers go through fussy eating phases
• The signs of a problem feeder (and when to seek help)
• Oral motor vs sensory feeding challenges — and how to tell the difference
• Why stress and mealtime dynamics can make things worse
• The impact of feeding difficulties on growth and nutrition
• Who to see and where to start if you’re feeling worried
• Why you don’t need a diagnosis to get support
• How a feeding team (OT, speech, dietitian) can help
• and so much more!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Boob to Food Online Clinic

• Picky Eater vs Problem Feeder blog

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Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate Holm
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