About
Summary: Leila encourages children to become brave Food Explorers by trying new foods with a positive mindset.
Synopsis: "Being a Food Explorer" addresses common anxieties children have about trying new foods. By framing the experience as an adventure, Leila encourages bravery and curiosity. The story outlines different food textures and flavors, suggesting that each food is a new adventure. It offers reassurance that it's normal to not like every food and promotes a positive mindset through supportive statements and deep breathing exercises. The involvement of family and friends is highlighted to make the experience more enjoyable.
Themes: The story emphasizes courage and exploration, encouraging children to see trying new foods as an exciting journey just like Leila does. Positive thinking is promoted, with suggestions for managing anxiety through deep breathing and optimistic thoughts. Support and togetherness are crucial, highlighting the role of family and friends in making the experience more fun. Acceptance and flexibility are also key themes, reassuring children that it's okay not to like every food and encouraging them to try foods multiple times.
Using Being a Food Explorer in Session
Therapists can use "Being a Food Explorer" to help children manage food-related anxieties. By discussing Leila's guide, therapists can explore children's feelings about trying new foods and use role-playing to reinforce positive behaviors. Activities like journaling and family taste tests can be integrated into therapy sessions to provide hands-on experience. This approach helps children build confidence and develop a healthy, adventurous relationship with food.
Discussion Questions:
1. How do you feel when you try new foods?
2. What can you do to make trying new foods more fun?
3. Why is it okay to not like every food you try?
4. How can family and friends help you be a Food Explorer like Leila?
5. Can you think of a time when you tried a new food and liked it?
6. What do you imagine when you think about being a Food Explorer?
7. How does Leila’s story make you feel about trying new foods?
8. What are some foods you are excited to try as a Food Explorer?
Related Resources:
In the Hopscotch Play Print section, you will find a PDF called I'm a Food Explorer that allows kids to journal their experiences trying new foods!
About
Summary: Leila encourages children to become brave Food Explorers by trying new foods with a positive mindset.
Synopsis: "Being a Food Explorer" addresses common anxieties children have about trying new foods. By framing the experience as an adventure, Leila encourages bravery and curiosity. The story outlines different food textures and flavors, suggesting that each food is a new adventure. It offers reassurance that it's normal to not like every food and promotes a positive mindset through supportive statements and deep breathing exercises. The involvement of family and friends is highlighted to make the experience more enjoyable.
Themes: The story emphasizes courage and exploration, encouraging children to see trying new foods as an exciting journey just like Leila does. Positive thinking is promoted, with suggestions for managing anxiety through deep breathing and optimistic thoughts. Support and togetherness are crucial, highlighting the role of family and friends in making the experience more fun. Acceptance and flexibility are also key themes, reassuring children that it's okay not to like every food and encouraging them to try foods multiple times.
1. How do you feel when you try new foods?
2. What can you do to make trying new foods more fun?
3. Why is it okay to not like every food you try?
4. How can family and friends help you be a Food Explorer like Leila?
5. Can you think of a time when you tried a new food and liked it?
6. What do you imagine when you think about being a Food Explorer?
7. How does Leila’s story make you feel about trying new foods?
8. What are some foods you are excited to try as a Food Explorer?
In the Hopscotch Play Print section, you will find a PDF called I'm a Food Explorer that allows kids to journal their experiences trying new foods!