Habits Can Help Parents - Why I Don't Fight Over Food Anymore

As parents, we often feel the pressure to do things "right." We want to be the best moms, the best dads, the ones who teach our kids all the good habits & guide them perfectly or to fit within our own remit. But sometimes, life has a funny way of showing us what battles are worth fighting - and food, in my house, is not one of them.

This morning was one of those rare textbook mornings for me. I got up, went to my class, came home, and got everything moving. Dishwasher? On. Laundry? Started. Breakfast? Made. My kids had eggs two ways: scrambled for my son, a boiled egg for my daughter.

Now, here’s where things got interesting. I placed the boiled egg on her plate, shell and all, and left her to mash it up however she likes. But the next thing I heard was, “Mom, cross-contamination! Cross-contamination of food!”

I didn’t roll my eyes or argue. I simply got up, got her a separate bowl, and moved the egg. Problem solved.

It might seem like a small moment, but it reminded me how far I’ve come as a parent. When I was growing up, food was often a battleground. You ate what was on your plate or you didn’t leave the table. No negotiations. For me, as a child with sensory issues I didn’t fully understand, this often led to tears. Wet dinners like stews or gravy were a nightmare - I’d be physically ill if I had to eat them. It wasn’t until my twenties that I even considered gravy on my plate.

As an adult - and as someone with ADHD - I now recognise that some of my food struggles stemmed from those sensory sensitivities. Understanding my own challenges has helped me to support my kids better, especially my daughter, who also has sensory needs.

Here’s the thing: I no longer fight over food. If she wants pasta every day with broccoli and a sprinkle of cheese, so be it. If she doesn’t want meat, that’s fine too. I’ve stopped trying to check some imaginary parenting box that says, “You must enforce X, Y, and Z rules about meals.” Instead, I’ve learned to let go and pick my battles.

And honestly? It’s brilliant. No arguments. No tears. Just a bit of extra care and understanding.

So, to all the parents out there navigating life with kids who have additional or sensory needs, let me tell you this: you’re doing a great job. Sometimes we need to give ourselves a little pat on the back. Parenting isn’t about perfection; it’s about connection. And sometimes, that connection comes from simply saying, “I get it,” and meeting your child where they are.

Pick your battles, and remember, food doesn’t have to be one of them.

Thanks for taking the time to read and here's some resources that may help you further.

🌻The Habit Boss 365 Day Habit Tracker

🌻7 Simple Steps to Become a (sort of) Morning Person

🌻The Flow Grow Glow Energy System - align you habits & you energy