Best Prime Big Day Deals For Kids Toys 2024

October 8, 2024

Best Prime Big Day Deals for Kids’ Toys in 2024

Amazon Prime Day is one of the most anticipated shopping events of the year, especially for parents looking for the best deals on kids’ toys. Whether you’re shopping for educational toys, sensory play, outdoor fun, or creative crafts, Prime Day offers huge discounts on popular brands. In this blog, we’ll cover the top-rated and trending toys for children of all ages, ensuring you get the best bang for your buck.

Why Shop for Toys on Amazon Prime Day?

Prime Day is famous for slashing prices on a variety of products, including kids’ toys. The deals can often be better than Black Friday or Cyber Monday, giving you a chance to stock up on birthday gifts, holiday presents, or even educational tools for at-home learning.

Benefits of Shopping Prime Day:

• Exclusive Discounts: Only Amazon Prime members get access to the best deals, with discounts up to 50% or more.

• Wide Selection: From LEGO sets to Barbie dolls, and STEM kits to outdoor playsets, there’s something for every child.

• Convenient Shopping: Skip the crowds and shop from the comfort of your home with fast shipping, often within two days.

• Perfect for Early Holiday Shopping: Save money by purchasing now for Christmas or other holidays later in the year.

Top 10 Toy Deals to Look for on Prime Big Day 2024

Here’s a list of top picks based on popularity, educational value, and reviews. (Note: Add your Amazon affiliate links in each product name)

1. LEGO Classic Large Creative Brick Box

• Regular Price: $59.99

• Prime Day Price: $39.99

• Savings: 33% off

LEGO sets are always a favorite among kids and even adults. The LEGO Classic Large Creative Brick Box is perfect for children aged 4 and up, encouraging creativity and fine motor development. With over 790 pieces, this set will keep kids entertained for hours while they build anything from animals to robots and vehicles.

2. Barbie Dreamhouse

• Regular Price: $199.99

• Prime Day Price: $149.99

• Savings: 25% off

The Barbie Dreamhouse is a timeless toy that many kids dream of owning. With multiple rooms, an elevator, and interactive elements like lights and sounds, this house brings the world of pretend play to life. This year’s Prime Day deal makes it even more accessible to families looking to invest in long-lasting imaginative play.

3. Melissa & Doug Deluxe Standing Art Easel

• Regular Price: $89.99

• Prime Day Price: $59.99

• Savings: 33% off

For budding artists, the Melissa & Doug Deluxe Standing Art Easel is an excellent gift. It includes a chalkboard, dry-erase board, and a paper roll for painting or drawing. Creative and educational, this easel fosters a child’s imagination while helping them develop motor skills.

4. VTech KidiZoom Creator Cam

• Regular Price: $59.99

• Prime Day Price: $45.99

• Savings: 23% off

In the digital age, even kids want to create their own videos. The VTech KidiZoom Creator Cam is a kid-friendly camera that allows children to make and edit videos safely. With easy-to-use features and parental controls, it’s a fun and safe way for kids to explore content creation.

5. Osmo - Genius Starter Kit for iPad

• Regular Price: $99.99

• Prime Day Price: $74.99

• Savings: 25% off

The Osmo Genius Starter Kit combines hands-on play with digital learning. Designed for kids ages 6-10, it includes five interactive games that teach math, spelling, drawing, and problem-solving skills. Compatible with most iPads, it’s a fantastic educational tool for any family looking to make screen time productive.

Why Educational Toys Are Important

Educational toys like LEGO and Osmo sets are more than just fun—they promote critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills in children. Research shows that educational play has a positive impact on brain development, helping kids develop fine motor skills, language abilities, and social-emotional skills. Shopping for educational toys during Prime Day can give your child a head start on learning while also offering savings for you.

6. Magna-Tiles 100-Piece Set

• Regular Price: $119.99

• Prime Day Price: $89.99

• Savings: 25% off

Magna-Tiles have been a favorite for years, thanks to their endless building possibilities. These magnetic tiles help children develop spatial awareness and fine motor skills while encouraging creativity. The 100-piece set is perfect for collaborative play among siblings or friends.

7. Hot Wheels Track Builder Unlimited Triple Loop Kit

• Regular Price: $49.99

• Prime Day Price: $34.99

• Savings: 30% off

For the car enthusiast in your family, the Hot Wheels Track Builder Triple Loop Kit offers endless fun with customizable track designs. This toy helps develop problem-solving and engineering skills as children build their own racetracks.

8. Crayola Inspiration Art Case Coloring Set

• Regular Price: $25.99

• Prime Day Price: $18.99

• Savings: 27% off

For kids who love to draw and color, the Crayola Inspiration Art Case includes over 140 pieces, including crayons, markers, and colored pencils. It’s a fantastic way to encourage artistic development while keeping everything organized in a handy carrying case.

9. Little Tikes Princess Horse & Carriage

• Regular Price: $129.99

• Prime Day Price: $99.99

• Savings: 23% off

For toddlers, the Little Tikes Princess Horse & Carriage is a delightful ride-on toy that encourages imaginative play and outdoor activity. It’s perfect for children who love pretending they’re going on royal adventures.

10. Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Puppy

• Regular Price: $24.99

• Prime Day Price: $17.99

• Savings: 28% off

Designed for babies and toddlers, the Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Puppy teaches numbers, colors, and more through songs and phrases. This interactive toy grows with your child, providing fun learning experiences at different developmental stages.

How to Make the Most of Prime Day

While Prime Day can be overwhelming due to the sheer number of deals, here are some tips to ensure you get the best prices:

1. Make a Wishlist: Start browsing Amazon a week before Prime Day to create a list of toys and items you want. This will make it easier to see if your desired products go on sale.

2. Use Amazon Assistant: This browser extension will help you compare prices and track deals in real-time.

3. Set a Budget: With so many deals, it’s easy to overspend. Set a budget for how much you want to spend and stick to it to avoid buyer’s remorse.

4. Take Advantage of Lightning Deals: These are time-limited deals that often offer even steeper discounts but sell out quickly. Keep an eye on the Lightning Deals page and set alerts.

5. Consider Amazon Family Membership: If you have young kids, signing up for Amazon Family can give you additional discounts on baby products and free two-day shipping.

Wrap-Up: Best Prime Day Deals for Kids’ Toys in 2024

Prime Day is an excellent opportunity to save money while finding toys that can inspire creativity, learning, and active play for your kids. From STEM toys to classic favorites, the deals this year are better than ever. Be sure to prepare ahead, make a shopping list, and act fast once the deals go live to get the best savings.

Make the most of Amazon Prime Day and check out these deals to ensure your kids have toys that spark joy and learning all year long!

Shop more Deals: https://sites.google.com/view/eat-play-love-ot/amazon-prime-day-2024

OT-Approved Toys for Fine Motor, Oral Motor, and Sensory Development

As a pediatric occupational therapist, I’m always on the lookout for toys that support children’s development in areas like fine motor skills, oral motor coordination, and sensory processing. For parents interested in toys that not only entertain but also help improve these key developmental skills, here are some OT-approved Prime Day deals that are perfect for kids of all ages.

OT-Approved Fine Motor Toys

Fine motor skills are essential for tasks like writing, buttoning clothing, and manipulating small objects. These toys are designed to strengthen hand muscles and improve hand-eye coordination in a fun, engaging way.

1. Learning Resources Spike the Fine Motor Hedgehog

• Regular Price: $16.99

• Prime Day Price: $12.99

• Savings: 24% off

This brightly colored toy helps children develop fine motor skills as they practice placing the chunky spikes into the back of the hedgehog. It’s great for kids aged 18 months and older, offering an easy and playful way to build hand strength, grasping skills, and coordination.

2. Tall-Stacker Pegs Building Set

• Regular Price: $29.99

• Prime Day Price: $21.99

• Savings: 27% off

This peg-building set encourages fine motor control, hand strength, and dexterity as children stack and arrange colorful pegs. It’s ideal for kids aged 2 and up and serves as a tool to improve finger isolation and the pincer grasp, which are essential for future handwriting skills.

3. Fat Brain Toys Squigz

• Regular Price: $24.95

• Prime Day Price: $18.95

• Savings: 24% off

Squigz are suction-based building toys that require children to push and pull them apart, helping develop fine motor strength, hand-eye coordination, and precision. The fun popping sound makes them highly engaging, and they’re suitable for kids aged 3 and up.

OT-Approved Oral Motor Toys

Oral motor development is critical for speech, feeding, and oral hygiene. Toys that promote oral motor skills can help children improve coordination and strength of the muscles used for eating and speaking. Here are some Prime Day deals on oral motor-friendly toys:

1. ARK Therapeutic Z-Vibe Oral Stimulator

• Regular Price: $49.99

• Prime Day Price: $39.99

• Savings: 20% off

The ARK Z-Vibe is an essential oral motor tool used by many occupational therapists to help children with oral sensitivities and feeding difficulties. It comes with interchangeable tips that offer various textures, which help stimulate oral awareness, reduce oral defensiveness, and improve feeding skills.

2. Chew Stixx Oral Sensory Chew Stick

• Regular Price: $14.99

• Prime Day Price: $10.99

• Savings: 27% off

This sensory chew tool is perfect for children who need additional oral stimulation. Designed with different textures, the Chew Stixx helps soothe kids who have oral motor needs or anxiety. It’s also durable and dishwasher-safe, making it a practical solution for both parents and therapists.

3. TalkTools Honey Bear Drinking Cup

• Regular Price: $12.99

• Prime Day Price: $9.99

• Savings: 23% off

The Honey Bear Drinking Cup is a popular oral motor tool used in feeding therapy. It helps children practice straw drinking, which is important for oral motor skill development. This cup encourages lip closure, cheek activation, and controlled oral movement, making it a great addition to your child’s feeding toolkit.

OT-Approved Sensory Toys

For children who benefit from sensory play, toys that provide different textures, weights, and stimuli can help regulate their sensory system and improve focus. These toys are fantastic for children with sensory processing needs or those who simply love tactile exploration.

1. Kinetic Sand Playset

• Regular Price: $24.99

• Prime Day Price: $18.99

• Savings: 24% off

Kinetic sand provides a fun, tactile experience that engages a child’s senses while helping them develop fine motor and sensory processing skills. The sand sticks to itself, making it easy to mold and shape, and it’s a calming, satisfying sensory experience for kids aged 3 and up.

2. TheraPutty for Hand Therapy

• Regular Price: $12.99

• Prime Day Price: $9.99

• Savings: 23% off

TheraPutty is commonly used in occupational therapy to improve hand strength and dexterity, making it a great fine motor and sensory tool. It comes in different resistance levels, so you can choose the best fit for your child’s hand development and sensory needs.

3. Sensory Chew Necklace by Solace

• Regular Price: $16.99

• Prime Day Price: $12.99

• Savings: 24% off

This chewable sensory necklace is designed for children who need oral stimulation or who tend to chew on non-food items. It’s also helpful for children who need to self-regulate during times of stress or anxiety. The durable, BPA-free material ensures safety while offering sensory input.

How These Toys Support Development

Occupational therapists use a variety of toys in therapy sessions to address specific developmental areas like fine motor control, sensory processing, and oral motor skills. These OT-approved toys are not only fun for kids, but they also help support:

• Fine Motor Development: Strengthening the muscles of the hands and fingers is essential for tasks like writing, buttoning, and cutting with scissors. Toys like pegboards, LEGO, and playdough are fantastic tools for improving fine motor precision.

• Oral Motor Skills: Oral motor toys help children develop the muscles used for speaking, chewing, and swallowing. This can be particularly helpful for children with feeding issues, speech delays, or sensory sensitivities around their mouth.

• Sensory Regulation: Sensory toys provide input that can help children self-regulate, improve focus, and reduce anxiety. Toys like weighted blankets, sensory balls, and kinetic sand provide different kinds of sensory feedback, which can be calming or stimulating, depending on the child’s needs.

By choosing toys that support these areas, you’re not only providing hours of fun but also promoting essential developmental skills.

These OT-approved fine motor, oral motor, and sensory toys listed above provide both entertainment and therapeutic benefits, making them great options for any family. Whether your child is working on strengthening their hand muscles, improving oral coordination, or engaging in calming sensory activities, these toys can support their developmental journey in fun and effective ways.

Be sure to check the deals and grab these OT favorites at discounted prices before they sell out! *Affiliate Links Above*

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Sensory Friendly Halloween Ideas for Kids in San Diego

October 7, 2025

Discover sensory-friendly Halloween ideas for kids in San Diego! From calm trick-or-treating and inclusive local events to OT-approved sensory play tips, Eat. Play. Love OT helps families enjoy a stress-free, fun Halloween.

Sensory Friendly Adaptive Dance for Kids

August 27, 2025

Move & Groove: Adaptive Dance Classes for Kids in San Diego Looking for fun, inclusive, and developmentally supportive kids’ classes in San Diego ? Eat. Play. Love. Occupational Therapy is proud to offer Move & Groove: Adaptive Dance for Every Ability , a sensory-friendly dance and movement program for children ages 4–8. This unique class is led by a pediatric occupational therapist trained in the DanceAbility® Method, ensuring every child can participate, grow, and shine. Why Adaptive Dance? Dance is a powerful tool for kids—it helps them build coordination, strength, and confidence. But not every child thrives in traditional dance settings. Loud music, fast-paced directions, and performance pressure can feel overwhelming, especially for children with sensory sensitivities or developmental differences. That’s where adaptive dance comes in. Our program focuses on inclusivity and celebrates every child’s unique way of moving. Instead of focusing on “perfect” steps, we emphasize creativity, connection, and joy. Benefits of OT-Led Dance Classes Because Move & Groove is led by an occupational therapist, the class supports both fun and function. Here’s what children gain: Strength & Coordination : Activities like jumping, balancing, and spinning build important motor skills. Sensory Regulation : Movement and music are structured to help kids stay calm, focused, and engaged. Social Confidence : Group activities encourage turn-taking, eye contact, and celebrating peers. Self-Expression : Children are free to move in their own way, reducing pressure and boosting self-esteem. What Makes the DanceAbility® Method Special? The DanceAbility® Method is internationally recognized for bringing people of all abilities together through improvisational dance. It focuses on connection, creativity, and inclusion. For children, this means a welcoming, pressure-free environment where they feel accepted and valued. Class Details – San Diego Adaptive Dance Program Ages: 4–8 Dates: Thursdays – September 25, October 2, 9, 16 Time: 5:00–5:30 PM Location: Kids & Coffee, 2310 Camino Vida Roble, Ste 101, Carlsbad, CA 92011 Cost: $35 per class Register: pci.jotform.com/form/251503802642146 Who Should Join? Move & Groove is perfect for: Kids with autism, ADHD, sensory processing challenges, or motor delays. Children who may not thrive in traditional dance classes. Any child who loves music, movement, and making friends! Why Parents Love It Families who join our kids’ classes in San Diego say their children leave happier, calmer, and more confident. Parents notice improvements in coordination, social skills, and self-esteem—and most importantly, they see their kids having fun. Sign Up Today If you’re searching for meaningful San Diego kids’ activities , Move & Groove is the perfect fit. Space is limited for this 4-week series, so don’t wait—reserve your child’s spot today! 👉 Register now here Move & Groove – Where ALL San Diego kids dance, connect, and grow!

🌿 Why Nature-Based Enrichment Is the Perfect Weekly Reset for Kids (and Parents!)

July 21, 2025

Discover the Magic of Outdoor Learning: Nature Enrichment Pods in San Diego for Homeschoolers and Curious Kids

Write Outside the Lines: The Handwriting Camp That Builds Confidence, Creativity & Coordination

July 3, 2025

Write Outside the Lines: The Handwriting Camp That Builds Confidence, Creativity & Coordination Does your child avoid writing tasks, get frustrated with pencil grip, or struggle with forming letters? You’re not alone—and we’re here to help. This summer, give your child the gift of confidence, creativity, and coordination with our one-of-a-kind handwriting camp: Write Outside the Lines . Led by licensed pediatric occupational therapist, our nature-based handwriting camp is designed for kids ages 4–7 and blends the power of movement, play, and connection with foundational handwriting skills. Whether your child is preparing for kindergarten or struggling to keep up in early elementary, this camp will offer a fun, pressure-free environment where they’ll not only practice handwriting—but love it. Why Handwriting Still Matters in a Digital World In a world of iPads and keyboards, it’s easy to assume handwriting is becoming obsolete. But research continues to show that handwriting plays a critical role in: Brain development Cognitive organization Fine motor control Memory and learning When kids struggle with handwriting, it often impacts their confidence, independence, and even how they participate in the classroom. At Write Outside the Lines, we take a whole-child approach that builds not only the mechanics of writing but also the motivation and regulation needed to thrive. What Makes Our Camp Different Most handwriting programs focus on worksheets and repetition. Our camp? It’s rooted in the belief that kids learn best when they’re moving, creating, and having fun. Here’s what makes us unique: 1. Occupational Therapy-Led Led by experienced pediatric OTs, our camp draws from evidence-based frameworks like: Handwriting Without Tears® Sensory integration theory Developmental motor patterns Visual motor and fine motor skill progression DIR Floortime Your child is not just practicing letters—they’re building the foundation for school success. 2. Nature-Based Setting Camp takes place in a magical play space, The Enchanted Treehouse , filled with trees, sensory paths, and open-ended materials. Studies show that time in nature improves attention, regulation, and creative problem-solving—all essential for handwriting. 3. Multi-Sensory Play Each day follows a new theme and incorporates: Gross motor games to wake up the body Sensory motor stations for pre-writing Hands-on handwriting practice (with no worksheets!) Crafts, stories, and nature journaling Social connection and positive peer interactions 4. Small Groups, Big Impact We cap our group size to ensure each child gets individual attention, OT guidance, and the chance to thrive without being overwhelmed. Who This Camp Is For Kids ages 4–7 who are: Starting to write letters but lacking consistency Avoiding handwriting due to frustration Struggling with pencil grasp, posture, or visual attention Needing a confidence boost before back-to-school Children with: Mild fine motor delays Sensory processing differences Attention or regulation challenges IEP or 504 plan support for writing Kids who simply love being in nature, getting messy, and learning in fun, creative ways! Camp Details at a Glance 📍 Location: Enchanted Treehouse Play Space, Solana Beach, CA 🗓 Dates: August 18-21, 2025 (Mon-Thurs) ⏰ Time: 10:30 AM -12:00 PM daily 👧 Ages: 4–7 👩‍⚕️ Led by: Licensed Pediatric Occupational Therapists 📦 Includes: Nature-based journal, handwriting tools, and daily themed crafts 🎟 Cost: $250 per child for the week, 10% sibling discount The Research Behind Our Approach Our camp is built on principles supported by pediatric OT best practices: Multi-sensory learning helps the brain retain letter formation better than rote copying Movement before seated work improves body awareness and pencil control Nature-based learning supports self-regulation, attention, and memory Peer modeling and playful routines increase motivation and carryover We don’t just teach writing—we support whole-child development . FAQs Q: My child struggles with attention. Will they be able to participate? Absolutely. Our small groups, sensory-informed transitions, and movement-rich design support children with varying attention spans. Q: Do we need to bring supplies? Nope! We provide everything—including a camp journal, handwriting tools, and craft materials. Q: Is this therapy or enrichment? This is a therapeutic enrichment program. It’s OT-designed and run, but not formal therapy. It’s ideal for kids who may benefit from OT support in a fun, camp-style format. Q: Can I attend with my child? We ask that caregivers drop off to help kids build independence and peer interaction. You can stay in the waiting lounge or walk along the 101 in Solana Beach. There are some restaurants to grab a bite to eat nearby. We'll keep you updated and share resources to support progress at home! Ready to Register? Spots are limited and tend to fill quickly—especially for our summer session. 👉 Click here to reserve your child’s spot You’ll receive a confirmation and welcome email with further details before the 1st day of class. We can’t wait to support your child’s handwriting journey in the most playful, powerful way possible! Still Have Questions? Reach out any time to: 📧 lindsey@eatplayloveot.com Or send us a DM on Instagram @eat.play.love.ot PS: Can’t make the camp dates? Join the waitlist or inquire about our private handwriting intensives and OT sessions throughout San Diego county. Email us! lindsey@eatplayloveot.com or fill out the form on the Contact page. Let’s help your child write with confidence—outside the lines .

Thrive Together: A Family Wellness Day for San Diego Families

March 19, 2025

🌿 Thrive Together: A Family Wellness Day for San Diego Families 🌿 Are you looking for a fun and meaningful family event in San Diego that supports your child’s development, connection, and wellness? Join us for Thrive Together: A Family Wellness Day —a one-of-a-kind event designed to nurture parents, kids, and the whole family. 🗓 Date: Saturday, April 13, 2024 ⏰ Time: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM 📍 Location: Fox Point Farms, Encinitas, CA 🎟 Grab your tickets here ! What is Thrive Together? Thrive Together is a family wellness event created by a local OT and SLP, experts in child development and family wellness, co-hosted by Fox Point Farms and By the Sea Mommy and Me, a fellow San Diego mom: ✨ Eat Play Love Occupational Therapy ✨ Family First Speech Therapy ✨ Fox Point Farms ✨ By The Sea Mommy and Me This event is designed to give San Diego families a chance to connect, play, learn, and grow—together. We’re bringing you hands-on activities, expert tips, and a beautiful outdoor setting perfect for making memories. What Families Can Expect: 🌱 Sensory Play Stations - Created to support regulation, creativity, and fun. 🗣️ Speech & Language Development Activities - Practical strategies and play-based learning to boost communication skills. 🧠 Mindful Parenting & Connection Tools - Tips from child development professionals to help you thrive as a parent. 🌸 Nature Play and Farm Fun - Explore the beauty of Fox Point Farms, a unique family-friendly venue in Encinitas. 👶 Baby & Toddler Zone - Safe and engaging activities just for our littlest guests. 🎨 Crafts, Music, and Movement - Opportunities to create, dance, and enjoy being together as a family. 💬 Meet Local Experts & Community Resources - Chat with everyone from therapists, wellness experts, and parenting coaches to real estate experts, home organization, and jewelry designers! We've got 25+ of the top local San Diego businesses attending to help support your family's journey! Why Should San Diego Families Attend? 💛 Because parenting is hard—and community matters. Thrive Together is designed to empower families with support, resources, and fun—all in one day. 💛 Because connection is powerful. This is your chance to connect with local child development experts, other parents, and your own children in meaningful ways. 💛 Because wellness starts early. Learn simple strategies to support your child’s sensory, speech, motor, and emotional development—right from the experts. 💛 Because your family deserves a joyful, screen-free day outdoors. Perfect For: ✅ Families with kids of all ages and abilities ✅ Parents looking for San Diego family events with expert support ✅ Families interested in sensory play, speech & language tips, and early childhood wellness ✅ Anyone ready for a fun, relaxing morning connecting with their kids 🌿 Join Us for Thrive Together! 🌿 Don’t miss this special day designed to help your family THRIVE—emotionally, physically, and socially. 🎟 Tickets are limited! Reserve your spot here Every ticket a dmits your entire family PLUS gets you entered in the raffle to win one of our amazing prizes from local businesses! Come play, connect, and grow with us at beautiful Fox Point Farms . We can’t wait to see you there!

5 Myths About Picky Eating and What You Actually Need to Know: Tips from a Pediatric OT and Feeding Specialist

January 4, 2025

5 Myths About Picky Eating and What You Actually Need to Know: Tips from a Pediatric OT and Feeding Specialist 🍓🍑🥒 If you’re a parent of a picky eater, you’ve probably searched high and low for solutions to make mealtimes less stressful. Navigating meals with a selective eater can be overwhelming, especially with conflicting information online. As a pediatric occupational therapist (OT) and feeding specialist, I’m here to debunk common myths about picky eating and share actionable tips that work. Read on to discover the truth behind picky eating and how to create stress-free meals your child will love. Myth #1: "Picky Eating Is Just a Phase" The Reality: It might be more than a phase. While picky eating is common among toddlers and preschoolers, for some children, it can persist beyond the typical developmental stages. In some cases, picky eating may indicate underlying issues, such as sensory processing difficulties, oral motor challenges, or even anxiety around food. What You Need to Know: Developmental Milestones Matter: Around 18 months to 3 years, children often experience food neophobia—a natural resistance to new foods. However, if your child’s eating habits severely limit their diet or persist well past age 5, it may require additional support. Trust Your Instincts: If you’re concerned about your child’s eating habits, trust your gut. It’s better to seek help early rather than assume your child will grow out of it. Tips for Parents: Keep a food diary to track what your child eats over a week. This can help identify patterns and nutritional gaps. Seek an evaluation from a pediatric feeding specialist or OT if your child’s diet is highly restrictive. Myth #2: "They’ll Eat When They’re Hungry" The Reality: Hunger doesn’t always win. Many parents believe that if a child is hungry enough, they’ll eat whatever is available. For selective eaters, especially those with sensory or medical challenges, hunger doesn’t necessarily override their discomfort or aversion to certain foods. What You Need to Know: Food Avoidance Is Complex: Sensory sensitivities, textures, smells, or even past negative experiences with food can cause a child to avoid eating, no matter how hungry they are. Pressure Backfires: Forcing a child to eat or withholding preferred foods until they eat something new can increase anxiety and lead to negative associations with mealtime. Tips for Parents: Offer a mix of familiar and new foods without pressure. Let your child decide what and how much to eat. Use a "safe food" approach: Always include at least one food your child likes at every meal. Myth #3: "Picky Eaters Are Just Being Stubborn" The Reality: It’s not about defiance. Picky eating is rarely a matter of willful behavior. Many children struggle with selective eating due to underlying sensory, motor, or emotional factors. What You Need to Know: Sensory Sensitivities: Some children have heightened sensitivities to textures, temperatures, or flavors, making certain foods overwhelming or even unbearable. Oral Motor Skills: Difficulty chewing or swallowing can lead to food avoidance. Children with oral motor challenges may prefer soft, easy-to-eat foods and reject others. Anxiety: Negative past experiences, such as choking or vomiting, can create a fear of eating certain foods. Tips for Parents: Approach mealtimes with empathy. Recognize that picky eating is often beyond your child’s control. Introduce new foods gradually. Allow your child to explore the food through touch or smell before expecting them to taste it. Myth #4: "Just Hide Veggies in Their Food" The Reality: Sneaky strategies can backfire. While sneaking veggies into foods like smoothies or sauces can ensure some nutrient intake, it doesn’t help your child build a positive relationship with food or learn to try new things. What You Need to Know: Honesty Builds Trust: Deceiving your child by hiding ingredients can lead to mistrust, especially if they discover the hidden food. Exposure Is Key: Kids need repeated, positive exposures to new foods to become comfortable with them. Hiding veggies doesn’t provide this opportunity. Tips for Parents: Get your child involved in meal prep. Washing, chopping, or stirring can make new foods less intimidating. Use "food chaining": Introduce new foods that are similar in taste, texture, or appearance to foods your child already likes. Myth #5: "It’s All About the Nutrition" The Reality: Mealtimes are about more than food. While nutrition is important, focusing solely on what your child eats can create unnecessary pressure and conflict. Mealtimes are an opportunity to build social skills, encourage independence, and foster a positive relationship with food. What You Need to Know: Connection Over Consumption: Creating a relaxed mealtime atmosphere can help your child feel safe and more open to trying new foods. Picky Eating Often Resolves Gradually: It’s a marathon, not a sprint. Small, consistent steps lead to long-term success. Tips for Parents: Establish a mealtime routine with clear expectations (e.g., sitting at the table for a set time). Celebrate small wins, like touching or smelling a new food, even if your child doesn’t eat it. Model healthy eating habits. Let your child see you enjoying a variety of foods. How a Pediatric OT Can Help If your child’s picky eating feels overwhelming, a pediatric occupational therapist can provide tailored strategies to support their unique needs. Here’s how: Assessment: An OT will evaluate your child’s sensory, motor, and oral skills to identify underlying challenges. Individualized Interventions: Therapy sessions may include sensory play, oral motor exercises, and gradual food exposure. Parent Training: Learn practical, evidence-based techniques to use at home. Final Thoughts Picky eating can feel like a daunting challenge, but it doesn’t have to define your mealtime experience. By understanding the myths and focusing on what really matters—connection, patience, and positive exposure—you can support your child in developing a healthy relationship with food. Remember, progress takes time, and every small step forward is a win. If you need extra support, don’t hesitate to reach out to a pediatric OT or feeding specialist. You’ve got this, and help is always available when you need it!

Best Prime Big Day Deals For Kids Toys 2024

Best Prime Big Day Deals for Kids’ Toys in 2024

Why Shop for Toys on Amazon Prime Day?

Benefits of Shopping Prime Day:

Top 10 Toy Deals to Look for on Prime Big Day 2024

Why Educational Toys Are Important

How to Make the Most of Prime Day

Wrap-Up: Best Prime Day Deals for Kids’ Toys in 2024

OT-Approved Toys for Fine Motor, Oral Motor, and Sensory Development

OT-Approved Fine Motor Toys

OT-Approved Oral Motor Toys

OT-Approved Sensory Toys

How These Toys Support Development

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