Welcome to The Positively Healthy Mom Podcast! I'm Laura Ollinger, and today, I’m thrilled to welcome Amy Thompson Martin, a Pediatric Occupational Therapist, Feeding Specialist, and founder of Little Table of Grace Coaching. With over 17 years of experience, Amy has dedicated her career to helping families navigate the challenges of feeding and nutrition, and today, she’s here to share her insights on managing "Teen Picky Eaters"—a topic that resonates with many parents!

In this enlightening episode, Amy explores the complexities of teen picky eating habits, not just as a phase, but as an opportunity to develop healthier, more balanced eating patterns. Amy’s journey into pediatric occupational therapy and feeding specialization began with a passion for helping children and families establish positive relationships with food. Now, she’s made it her mission to provide practical solutions for teens struggling with picky eating behaviors.

Amy guides us through effective strategies for addressing picky eating, perfect for busy moms seeking ways to improve their teens' nutrition. She covers everything from understanding the root causes of picky eating to introducing new foods in a way that is stress-free and manageable for both parents and teens. Amy’s advice includes how to create a positive environment during mealtimes, starting with small, approachable changes that support healthy eating habits.

For our listeners, Amy emphasizes the importance of patience and understanding. She highlights the significance of involving teens in discussions about food preferences to reduce resistance and encourage a more cooperative atmosphere at the dinner table. Her expert tips aim to foster trust and open communication, making it easier to introduce new foods gradually without pressure.

Amy also provides valuable guidance on making family mealtimes enjoyable, turning them into moments of connection rather than conflict. She shares how these mindful strategies can reduce stress, improve nutrition, and create a harmonious eating experience for both teens and parents.

Amy’s journey is one of dedication, compassion, and empowerment.

Throughout her career, Amy has worked with countless families to overcome feeding challenges and build a foundation of healthy eating. Today, she offers workshops and personalized guidance, helping others enhance their children's eating habits and overall well-being.

Key takeaways from this episode include:

• Understanding the impact of picky eating on teens’ nutrition and overall health.
• How to incorporate new foods into your teen's diet gradually and without pressure.
• Practical tips for fostering a positive and calm mealtime environment.
• Empowering your teen to take an active role in their nutrition while respecting their preferences.
• Building a sustainable approach to healthy eating through patience, consistency, and open communication.

Join us for this insightful conversation and discover how Amy’s expertise and passion for pediatric feeding therapy can inspire and guide you toward a more peaceful and enjoyable mealtime experience for your family.

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