Getting up and down during meals

[michelleagain]

My DD is now 26 months and has been a gem food wise, but  just recently started asking for just about everything under the sun during meal time. Once we sit down, she starts with every kind of food she can think of and doesn't stop. When you get the requested item, she screams when it is on her tray that she wants it off. She is eating less and driving us both crazy. We are finding similar behavior when going to bed, but they are more stalling techniques. Does anyone have any ideas on how to stop this and enjoy family meals again?

Thanks!

[~Angie~]

If she is just asking for random things I probably wouldn't get them for her. I would say something like, "This is what we are having for supper." and leave it at that. DS will sometimes ask for ketsup to go with his chicken nuggets and I'll get that for him. But, if I have made chicken nuggets and he asks for grilled cheese, I say "I have already made chicken nuggets, but I'll make you a grilled cheese for snack." You might also try telling her before you sit down for supper what you are having and let her ask for anything extra then. Then, when she sits to eat, she knows she can't ask for anything else.

HTH 

[Lana]

I agree with the PP I would put the meal in front of her and leave it at that.  If she eats it great if not then let her get down and she waits until the next meal or snack time.  That is what I did with E and food has never been a battle for us.  Really she will not starve herself.