motivation

 

Parents will often contact us when their child begins to give indications that they would like some help with their fear of food. Some kids might have been teased for not eating certain foods, and after hearing “What’s wrong with you, why don’t you like pizza?” at every birthday party they attend, they might decide they want help on their own. For other kids, it might not be this simple. Some kids might insist that they do not want to change, and that they are perfectly okay eating a limited number of foods.  Sometimes just the idea of attempting new food challenges is so scary for children that it becomes much easier to reject the idea all together, and deny that this is a problem for them. Then again, there are some children who really believe their selective eating isn't a problem at all. 

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Our treatment program begins with assessment and investigation. It is a very non-threatening way of allowing your child to explore and describe their experience of food. Whether your child is very motivated - or doesn’t seem too motivated at all - our treatment team will guide him or her through this process by building and/or reinforcing motivation along the way. Treatment can progress faster when children are motivated for change; however, part of treatment can involve building this motivation in children who are more resistant if they are experiencing any negative outcomes from their selective eating. Our program is also designed to help parents better understand their child’s selective eating, and teach skills to help you help your child. 

 

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