Encouraging Sensory Exploration of Food

"One of my favorite times of day with a group of toddlers is mealtime…" writes Deb Curtis in Really Seeing Children. "It's one of the few times during the day that their usually active bodies are still. This time often has a meditative quality to it as the children sit quietly and immerse themselves fully in the experience. They notice the collection, colors, textures, temperature, and taste of the food. The children explore with their hand and fingers, as well as their mouths.

I’ve heard adults discourage this sensory exploration and efficient finger eating when they remind children to 'use your spoon' or 'stop playing with your food.' Instead, I want to delight with and learn from the children’s persistence, pleasure, and total captivation with these experiences."

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