What You'll Master in This 1.25-Hour Session
Unpack the six underlying drivers of avoidant eating—from sensory processing and autism-related rigidity to oral motor difficulties and adult-led pressure responses—so you can stop labeling and start understanding.
Learn how to distinguish typical developmental food selectivity from feeding presentations that actually warrant a referral to a health manager or specialist.
Walk away with at least three classroom-level strategies that immediately reduce mealtime distress for sensory-sensitive and neurodivergent children.
Discover concrete language shifts and educator approaches you can implement starting Monday morning to create calmer, more inclusive mealtimes.
Meet Your Expert Facilitator
Natalia Stasenko, Pediatric RD
Feeding Specialist & Early Childhood Expert
Bringing years of experience working with Head Start programs and sensory-sensitive children to help educators understand the 'why' behind feeding challenges.
Why This Matters for Your Classroom
You know the scene: it's lunchtime, and a child sits frozen in front of their plate. Another pushes food away before even trying it. A third gags at the smell. As Head Start educators and health managers, you see these moments every day—and the word 'picky' just doesn't cut it. The truth is, for many children, especially those who are autistic or sensory-sensitive, eating isn't about stubbornness. It's genuinely hard. This session peels back the label to reveal what's really happening. You'll understand the six drivers behind avoidant eating, learn how to spot when it's time to refer a child for specialist support, and most importantly, you'll leave with practical, immediately actionable strategies that transform mealtime from a source of stress into an opportunity for connection. Because when you understand the 'why,' everything changes.
Don't Let Another Mealtime Pass Without Understanding What's Really Happening
This 1.25-hour session is designed specifically for Head Start educators and health managers who want to move beyond frustration and into real solutions. You'll leave with concrete strategies, a clearer lens for identifying when referrals are needed, and the language to support families. Spots are limited—save yours today.
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