Episode 89 - Understanding picky eating: A psychological perspective

About this episode

This episode explores the psychological and environmental factors contributing to picky eating in children and offers insights for parents on improving mealtime dynamics.

Picky eating can be frustrating (and exhausting) for parents, but there's often so much more beneath the surface than simply a child being "fussy."  In this episode, I explore some of the psychological factors that can contribute to and maintain selective eating in children.  I chat about:  Why it’s not just psychological – how behavioral, physiological, and environmental factors also play a role How a child’s sense of calm and safety at mealtimes can directly affect their willingness to eat The impact of a parent’s stress and nervous system on a child’s appetite and digestion Why it’s so important to prioritize your connection with your child over the food on their plate The importance of understanding your role as the provider of food and knowing what your child’s role is too  Why pressure, rewards, and labels (like “picky eater”) can actually make things harder How your own eating behaviors and attitudes around food shape your child’s approach to eating If you’ve ever wondered why your child is so selective or how to shift the dynamic at mealtimes without pressure or power struggles, this episode is for you. Come say hi to me on Instagram Helpful Articles…

People in this episode

Host: Dr. Hilary Claire

Topics covered

• picky eating
• psychological factors
• parenting
• mealtime dynamics
• child development

Keywords

• picky eating
• psychology
• parenting stress
• mealtime safety
• child appetite

More episodes of Wild and Well | Motherhood, Postpartum Wellness and Children’s Health

• Functional Mushrooms, Self-Love and Entrepreneurship with the co-founder of Ananda Elixirs Sammi Dreiling | Episode 104 · June 7, 2026 · 56 min
• Transformative Parenting and Emotional Regulation with Psychotherapist and Parenting Coach Todd Sarner | Episode 103 · May 31, 2026 · 1h 3m
• Holistic Psychiatry and Mental Wellness with Dr Hector Rodriguez | Episode 102 · May 24, 2026 · 1h 3m
• How Sensory Processing Affects Picky Eating with Paediatric Occupational Therapist and Parent Coach Effie Pomaki | Episode 101 · May 17, 2026 · 44 min
• Picky Eating in Kids: Causes and Practical Solutions | Episode 100 · May 14, 2026 · 55 min
• Gut Health, Ulcerative Colitis, and Fecal Transplant with Holistic Nutritionist Nicole Inwentash | Episode 99 · May 10, 2026 · 42 min