Happy meal planning
1–2 yearsEmotional WellbeingMaterials: Regular meal or snack foods
During meals or snack preparation, talk positively about the food you're offering. Say "This apple is going to taste good" or "You might like these crackers." Even if your child rejects food, stay positive and say "Maybe next time." This creates positive expectations around eating and shows that trying new things is safe and potentially enjoyable.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
During meals or snack preparation, talk positively about the food you're offering. Say "This apple is going to taste good" or "You might like these crackers." Even if your child rejects food, stay positive and say "Maybe next time." This creates positive expectations around eating and shows that trying new things is safe and potentially enjoyable.
Why It Works
Using positive language about experiences helps children develop optimistic expectations about trying new things. Research shows that optimism showed positive effects on adaptation and that students with optimistic dispositions demonstrated better coping strategies when facing challenges (Tetzner & Becker, 2018). By framing food positively, you help your child approach new experiences with openness rather than fear.
Tips for Parents
Avoid pressure. Offer food with optimism but accept refusal calmly.
Use positive language about food. Say "This is crunchy" instead of "You won't like this."
Model enjoying food yourself. Your child learns by watching you.
Materials Needed
Regular meal or snack foods
Learning Methods
Language-Rich EnvironmentImitation and Modeling
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