Need help with your baby or toddler throwing food on the floor during meals? Get these easy strategies you can start using today from a mom and feeding therapist that’s been there.
I’ve been pushed over the edge during countless meals because another piece of food, a whole plate of dinner, or a straw cup filled with milk, soared through the air to splatter all over the floor at the hands of my baby or toddler.
It absolutely grated on my nerves some nights, but because I had worked with hundreds of eating babies and toddlers, I knew all too well that it was actually quite normal.
Even knowing that truth might not help your patience, there’s more to understand about the toddler throwing food at every. single. meal. And, more importantly, there are some tips you can start using today to actually teach your baby or toddler to at least decrease how often and how much food they’re whipping across the room, if not stop it all together!
Why Babies and Toddlers Throw Food on the Floor
Throwing food is totally normal for children between 8 and 18 months old. This happens for a variety of reasons. I’m going to teach you a few of the most common, but know that there can be some overlap:
- They are learning cause and effect – Yes, it’s that simple. It’s fun for babies and toddlers to drop or throw food on the floor. They are actually learning that they can make something happen. It may be even more exciting if there’s a dog there to eat it up!
- Their way of communicating – Once they learn they can drop food, it isn’t long before they realize that they can throw food off their high chair because they don’t want to eat it. Babies and toddlers may be selective about foods simply because of how they look, meaning they aren’t too sure about the color of texture. Or, they may not know how to eat it, which is something we take for granted as adults.
If you’re struggling with babies or toddlers that seem to be eating very little food, head to When Babies Won’t Eat Solids for more help.
- Their way of getting attention – It can be pretty motivating for a baby or toddler to get attention of any kind, even if it’s negative. And, if they’ve learned you’re going to give them a big reaction every time they’re throwing food, then it could inspire them to keep it up.
- They are afraid they’re going to be forced to eat it – It can be really tempting to force feed babies and toddlers, and for some kids, it may seem that there is no other way to get them to eat. The truth, though, is that it actually causes more issues around their ability to eat and their acceptance of foods. Some kids that have been force fed will throw any and all food the instant they see it as a defensive mechanism.
Learn more about why force feeding can be detrimental and how to stop it with my best picky eating tip.
Although I could still lose my patience when one of my toddlers was throwing food again, knowing these facts was helpful most nights in helping me keep my cool. My hope is that it helps you in the same way. Now, let’s get on to those tips…
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6 Tips to Stop the Baby or Toddler Throwing Food
While a baby or toddler throwing food on the floor is typical, it can become a habit that’s hard to break well past the age that it should’ve stopped on its own. Not to mention the mental drain on moms and dads that occurs from the constant throwing and clean up. No matter what age your baby or toddler is, these tips will help your child learn to stop dropping or throwing their food from their highchair tray.
1. Give them less food – Babies and toddlers love to play with their food and when we serve them a big helping of table foods, it literally gives them that much more ammunition. Sometimes the reason they’re throwing their food is because it’s an overwhelming amount in front of them, but even if that’s not the case, giving them just a few pieces (meaning 1-3 at a time) on their tray will often decrease or eliminate the throwing of food all together.
2. Feed them with your 1:1 attention – As a busy parent, we’d often like to unload the dishwasher, clean the kitchen, or make a quick phone call while our babies and toddlers are busy eating, but you’ll be able to stop them from throwing much easier if you’re sitting down with them with your full attention. I’ll teach you how in the tips below!
3. Be calm, even if you’re not – Giving the illusion of calm will help your child learn that you are not phased by any food they throw. This is particularly powerful if your kiddo has gotten into the annoying habit because of the attention they receive while throwing their food. While you may have to fake your calm attitude initially, in the long run, it will help you to be more patient. This patience will set a valuable tone for mealtimes that allows your child to feel comfortable exploring new foods and eating until their belly is full!
If the food hitting the floor totally sends you over the edge, consider laying down a mat like this one under the high chair for easy clean up… or get a dog!
4. Repeat a clear phrase – The scene may look something like this… Your toddler is sitting in their high chair, you’re sitting at the table next to them with your plate of food, plus a plate of food for them. You give them a few pieces of food with a smile on your face and they look at you with a smile on theirs as they pick up a piece of food in each hand and swiftly toss them to the ground.
At this point, I begin to use a simple phrase that I can repeat over and over again to teach them where the food does go. I’m careful not to turn into a negative by saying “No throwing food,” instead I want to be specific, clear, and positive with, “We keep food on the tray.”
With the next couple of pieces I give my toddler, I’m watching like a hawk and ready to pounce, as soon as I see that little chubby hand begin to move. I’m ready to grab it firmly and say, “We keep food on the tray.” I may have to say this 10 times in a row, for multiple meals, but it will sink in. This tip can’t be completed without your full attention, and if you’re not calm, take a minute to breathe because we don’t want this to seem like punishment.
5. Teach them to put unwanted food into a special section on their high chair – If it’s obvious that your baby or toddler doesn’t like a food and that’s why they’re throwing it, show them that they can pile it into a corner of their tray or a separate compartment (usually for a drink) like many modern high chairs now have. This is a perfect next step to tip number 4.
Continuing with our example above, after you repeat the phrase you’re using (you can use mine or something similar), take their hand while your still grasping their hand or wrist and move it to where they can put their food and say, “You can put it here.” Help them to drop the food into the corner or a little section. Then, I’d follow up again with, “We keep food on the tray.”
Again, this will take a lot of practice and repetition for your young baby or toddler to learn, but it will happen.
6. Seat them at the table – There are a lot of booster seats available that you can use on top of a regular chair that are appropriate for an older baby or toddler. When you use one, with them strapped in but without the tray attached, you can push them right up to the table. In this case, you’ll probably want a place mat (we used one like this, the crumb tray is genius) to put their food on.
Being tucked into a table makes it harder for a baby or toddler to throw food onto the floor!
There are lots of benefits to your child being at the table with you for meals, and not on their own separate island, and while food hitting the floor will likely reduce, it’s still possible some will find it’s way there.
Take a deep breath and relax, you’ve got a game plan for your baby or toddler throwing food at the next meal! Know that this will pass in the coming months with your consistency and patience.
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More Awesome Tips for Toddlers
The Essential One-Stop Guide for Easy Toddler Meals
How Much Milk Should A Toddler Drink?
The Greatest Toddler Breakfast Ideas, Easy + Healthy
How to Prevent Toddlers from Becoming Picky Eaters
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Alisha Grogan is a licensed occupational therapist and founder of Your Kid’s Table. She has over 15 years experience with expertise in sensory processing and feeding development in babies, toddlers, and children. Alisha also has 3 boys of her own at home. Learn more about her here.
I’m having this problem too! But he only does it at dinnertime and I’m afraid he didn’t eat enough cause he is a skinny kid and his pediatrician is concerned about his weight. I don’t wanna force him but at the same time I wanna make sure his belly is full. I might try some of these techniques cause I wanna pull my hair out!
Hi Brittany! Thanks for reaching out! We understand how frustrating it can be- hang in there! Definitely try some of these tips and see if they can help! For more help, check out our free picky eating workshop— save your seat here.
Best,
Kalyn
These steps don’t work at all unfortunately. Read this article 6 months ago and have been consistently trying the steps in this article, but they haven’t worked, not at all. Daughter is a pretty good eater but a lot of food ends up on the floor every single meal.
I’ve been doing this for the last 6 months and it hasn’t even made a dent. I absolutely dread meal time. I say “food stays on the tray.” She nods then swipes food everywhere. There’s bananas all over the floor and I don’t even think I’m gonna clean it. I refuse in fact. It’s just gonna happen again. Good luck everyone!
Hi Rachel,
We’re sorry to hear that it has been difficult! It can be really tough when our little ones don’t seem to be cooperating! I’ve been there too. Hang in there! I don’t know if your daughter is also spitting out food, but often times throwing and spitting go hand in hand. We also have a workshop that talks about transitioning to table foods that might be helpful. You can save your seat HERE.
Best,
Andrea
I’m going through the exact same thing ATM you explained my situation to a T.
Did your little one get better? If so how old was she when she stopped throwing food on the floor?
I have been caring for my grandkids while mom an dad are on short trip.
My youngest will throw her food on the floor. The floor gets more then her. So I prayed about and read these tips. So I noticed if I put 1 piece of food down she will grab it and eat it. I wait till she is done and give another piece. This was the first day and it is working great. I believe she would get overwhelmed with a lot of food on her plate. I also prayed for patience, peace, love and kindness through this process. God has never let me down.
With much love for all you moms and dads… have a blessed day.
Hi Jerri! Wow, thank you so much for sharing your feedback and success with mealtime! So glad to hear that giving her one piece of food at a time has helped eliminate food throwing. We appreciate you and your support!
Best,
Kalyn
Hi Alisha,
I just had an almost emotional breakdown after an encounter with my 18 month old baby who just spew food around and didn’t want to eat. She eats well with her grandma but it’s never been a smooth experience whenever it is my turn to feed her. She seems to push my limits while she knows I’m her mom and it doesn’t happen only during mealtimes but also during diaper-change or bath-time. Then I just had to turn to google to help me with what seems to be a mentally draining experience. I find your article really sympathetic and would love to try the fourth tip (repeat a clear phrase). Thanks for sharing.
We hear you Charisse, so happy that you found us online and found this article when you needed it! It can be hard and draining at times, but we really hope these tips help put you at ease! Stay consistent 🙂
Best,
Desiree
My wife really struggles with feeding our boy. But I’m much calmer and patient, so I get the feeding duties in my house. I’ve been doing your tips, but not repeatedly as you suggest. Glad to know I am on the right track.
Thanks
So glad we can help!! And that you’re following through with the tips! Keep it up, we know it can be hard, but just know you’re doing great!
Best,
Desiree
What if your child only throws food in a restaurant..not just food but utensils, full plates of food etc..to the point of hitting othe patrons at other tables with the food
Hey Terry,
Oh that sounds like such a challenging situation! You would really treat it similar to if they’re doing it at home. Try to remain neutral and consistent with stating that food stays on the table/tray. If you notice that reactions to the throwing seem to be bigger when at a restaurant, then your little one could definitely be doing it for the increased reaction. Staying consistent can help. But this can be such a difficult stage!
Best,
Andrea
I care for my almost 20 month grandson. It is a true joy to care for him , But lately food has been a huge challenge. Almost daily we find foods he loved yesterday he seems to detest today and sticking his hands in the yogurt container and then throwing it! I was hoping there would be a magical answer here and I will continue to keep calm and keep trying with Mr independent ! We had to stop with the high chair months ago due to not wanting to be confined. I know he’s hungry and I feel it’s a bit of a power struggle. Everything can be cleaned it’s mainly making sure he’s getting the nutrition and not letting him just have a cup of milk. I guess I don’t remember the three children I raised doing this but it could be just that it was over 30 years ago! Any future suggestions are so welcomed and I will continue to stay calm and not react in a negative way. Thank you!
Hi Susan! Thanks for reaching out! Keep trying the tips in the article and be patient. Also try putting just 1-2 pieces of food on the tray at a time for a little while. That may help get rid of his temptation to throw all the food onto the floor! I hope that helps.
Best,
Kalyn
I really like the fact that I’m not the only one feeling stressed and angry when this happens. I also appreciate you being honest and saying it’s overwhelming and tempting to punish, this was exactly me! My baby is doing baby led weaning and was a awesome eater until the 11month. I’m so fed up with the food throwing, but thanks to you, I’ll remain calm (most of the time) and use your tricks while this awful phase pass.
Hey Christine,
So glad you found our article! We know how hard it can be!! One day at a time 🙂
Best,
Desiree
what can you do if they just refuse to eat anything?
Hey Amber,
So sorry you are having trouble getting your little one to eat. We do have a free workshop that will help walk you through some strategies/suggestions to figure out how to work through this transition. I’d start now, by letting your little one have some time to start touching and playing with the food you are working on them trying to eat, if she’s not already doing so. Save a seat for the workshop HERE
Best,
Desiree
I just want to say thank you. For the most part this was stuff I knew but I was getting overwhelmed and this helped me refocus and have a plan of action for us and the grandparents. Thank you thank you thank you.
You are so welcome!! So glad we were able to help get you focused!!
Best,
Desiree
hi i read about you yours profesional skills also. i want to know more that feeding skills like how to improve vegetative skills Oro motor exercises.
I have a lot of material on the website that is available. You can use the search bar at the top of the page to look up any topic you would like to read about.
If you are looking for more about oral motor exercises, you can check that out here.
Hi! Just some additional questions around point 4 in the article. What to do with the pieces thrown initially on the floor or during meal time? Do I pick it up right away or wait for the meal to end? If I don’t pick it up I might end with no food to serve😬. Also, I noticed that my kid tends to get rid of every piece until the last one standing, which he will pick up and eat. Or if I put something that he reaaally likes puts multiple pieces (or all) in his mouth at the same time😳.
Hi Lacramioara,
Yes! That sounds familiar! You might either leave the food on the floor or be as neutral as possible when you do pick it up. Another thing to try is to just put 1-2 pieces of food on the tray at a time for a little while. That also would get rid of his temptation to stuff all the food he likes into his mouth at once! I hope that helps.
Best,
Andrea
What about if, your child is two and still doing this? Is that normal?
Hey Tabitha,
We do see this at all ages. I’d utilize the tips in the article to work on getting it to stop, regardless of age 🙂 Hope these tips help!
Best,
Desiree
Hi this is shivaraj from india.i am working as a speech therapist in rehabilation centre. I read about Oro motor exercises feeding like vegetative skills.You are explained very nice and you are doing very well to helpfull of people. And i want to know more knowledge about this OPM as your profesional skills. Kindly you send me my mail.
Nice information. I have the last advice you have shared and must say it worked for me. I bought booster seats after reading reviews on Netparents. Although I believe, I will be using other pieces of advice too as my daughter grows.
Awesome, that’s fantastic!
Great tips you are sharing in this blog. I really like your blog. Really nice and amazing piece of information you shared. Thanks for sharing.
Oh thank you Sandra!
Fantastic & great article. Really love this & appreciate this. Keep this up. Thanks a lot.
I’m so glad!
Been doing all of your suggestions for my now 21 month old since he began throwing food on the floor at 12 months, and he is still theorist food on the floor. Every meal. Im coming up with absolutely nothing and it’s making me insane. Clearly not working.
My son just turned 2 yrs old he is still eating third foods and throws the food as well I have read many articles and I’m excited to start trying them thank you so much
a couple month ago, i’m not sure i will be in this article right now.. cause my daughter won’t eat soft food. chewing problem, texture sensory problem, stressful new mom..
Thank you so much Alisha for your awesome blog, it really really helped me alot. slow but sure now my kid can eat soft food even just a little before spitting out. just a phase didn’t work on my kid. i can’t just doing nothing, just watching her eating puree day by day.
Having premiee baby already a challenge to catch a gap with others, at least now mealtime with her with no stress anymore.
It’s so fun seeing her smile while she mess her food.
It’s give me hope a few months later she will be a good eater.
Big hug for you, Alisha!
I’ve been on this site for about 20 minutes and have already read three articles that address some of our biggest issues with my 2- and 4-year olds! Thank you!!
You’re welcome! I’m so glad you found some helpful information!
These are great tips for moms of toddlers! My son is 18 months and the food throwing is getting out of control. Normally I just tell him not to throw food. But that doesn’t work of course, so I’m trying your phrase of “We keep food on the tray.” I think this will work much better for meal times. Thank you for the great advice!
Liz | Pitter Patter Of Baby Feet
Awesome! I’m so glad to hear that!!
How does the child eat if the food is on the tray?