How should a therapist approach a child known for throwing tantrums at mealtimes?

A therapist should assist the child in vocalizing frustrations instead of throwing food because this approach fosters healthy emotional expression and communication. Helping the child articulate their feelings allows them to develop coping skills and understand that there are appropriate ways to express feelings of frustration or discomfort. This can decrease the likelihood of future tantrums as the child learns to recognize and communicate their needs without resorting to disruptive behaviors.

Additionally, focusing solely on punishing the tantrums without discussing feelings does not address the underlying issue of emotional regulation. Encouraging the child to throw food as a way to communicate reinforces negative behavior rather than providing them with constructive alternatives. Ignoring the behavior may temporarily remove attention from the tantrums, but it does not help the child learn how to manage their feelings appropriately.