The Science of Trust: Why Connection is the Key to Easier Mealtimes

In this episode, Christine Miroddi Yoder shares her evolving perspective on feeding and how trust and connection have been the biggest game-changers in helping children feel safe and open to new foods. She explains the brain science behind this, including how anxiety and pressure activate the amygdala, making it harder for kids to engage with food, while oxytocin—the bonding hormone—helps them feel secure and curious. Christine encourages parents to spend uninterrupted, quality time with their children outside of mealtimes, emphasizing that even just 10-15 minutes of one-on-one connection each day can create a strong foundation of trust that translates to easier mealtimes. She offers practical suggestions, like playing games, reading books, or simply being fully present, and challenges parents to try it for a week. This episode is a powerful reminder that small, intentional moments of connection can have a lasting impact on a child’s willingness to eat and their overall emotional well-being.