picky eater parenting

A 5-week programme that takes the stress out of mealtimes and gives your child the foundations for lifelong confidence with food.

If you’ve ever sat at the table feeling like a failure because your child refused yet another meal, you’re not on your own. Many of us go through this when our kids are small. What gets called “picky eating” is often part of development - children under seven can become cautious about new foods, eat very little, or stick to rigid favourites. Knowing that doesn’t make it any less stressful when it’s your child.

We carry the same feelings: the knot in your stomach worrying about growth and nutrition, the guilt when mealtimes turn into a fight, the shame when grandparents, nurseries or even health visitors look at you like you’re doing it wrong. Add the mental load of planning and second-guessing every meal, and it’s no wonder we end up anxious, isolated and exhausted.

But here’s the truth: it isn’t your fault. Feeding challenges are common, and they don’t mean you’re failing as a parent. What changes everything is the right support - practical strategies that lower the stress, and a non-judgemental space to talk openly and share what works.

That’s exactly what Picky Eater Parenting is here for: five weeks of guidance, tools and encouragement to help you take the pressure out of mealtimes and feel confident your child is on the right track.

How the programme works

toddler boy being a picky eater sat at the table with a plate of food

For just under £60 a week, you’ll get five weeks of support, structure, and tools to move past daily mealtime stress and start seeing real change.

  • 5 weekly live sessions at 8pm (after bedtime) - begins 14 July 2026

  • A dedicated live Q&A every week to tackle what’s happening in your home right now

  • A private Picky Eater Portal with replays, catch-up access, and additional resources

  • Weekly activities and check-ins to keep you on track

  • Step-by-step practical strategies you can use straight away

  • Access to the private Facebook community to share experiences with other parents

  • Optional WhatsApp broadcast group for quick updates and reminders

Places are strictly limited and will be first come, first served.

All led by Lucy Upton -  a children’s dietitian with 15+ years’ experience, and a non-judgemental, supportive approach that makes parents feel heard, not blamed.

Lucy Upton the children's dietitian creator of the picky eater parenting course
young girl being a picky eater with broccoli on a fork

The difference you’ll see in 5 weeks

In six weeks you’ll move from daily battles and second-guessing to calmer meals, clear strategies, and confidence that your child is on the right track.

  • From guilt to calm – feel more in control at mealtimes and reconnect with your child.

  • From “I don’t know what to do” to “I have a plan” – know exactly how to respond when food is refused or thrown.

  • From trial and error to proven strategies – step-by-step tools that fit real family life.

  • From conflict to teamwork – bring grandparents, partners, and nurseries on board without constant battles.

  • From worry to reassurance – understand what real progress looks like so you know your child is doing fine.

  • From feeling alone to supported – join a community of parents who get it, so you don’t feel like you’re carrying this on your own.

why this programme? why lucy?

When it comes to feeding struggles, you don’t just need tips - you need someone who has seen it all and knows what actually works.

This programme is led by Lucy Upton, one of the UK’s most trusted children’s dietitians:

  • Over 15 years’ experience working with families through the NHS and in private practice.

    Specialist in responsive feeding approaches, designed to lower stress and build children’s confidence with food.

    Mum to a toddler herself – so she understands the yoghurt stand-offs and bedtime worries firsthand.

    A 100% 5-star Google rating from families who have been where you are now.

Lucy’s approach is professional, practical, and never judgemental.

My ‘Picky Eater Parenting’ programme runs multiple times throughout the year.

The next programme starts on 14th July 2026.

To register your interest for the following programme in October 2026, please enter your details and one of the team will be in touch with more information.

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