Encourage the toy
Turn tough moments like mealtimes or toothbrushing into playful roleplay!
When your child resists eating a new food or brushing their teeth, bring in a toy to ‘struggle’ with the same task. Pretend the toy refuses (“No way, I’m not eating that!”), then encourage it gently (“Maybe just one little try?”).
Invite your child to help convince the toy, creating a fun back-and-forth. The toy can eventually try and reacts in an exaggerated way - maybe it loves it, maybe it needs another try. Often, children mirror the toy and give it a go too!
This playful approach...
Materials
Prep
Choose a favourite toy your child connects with.
Play
Step 1:
Introduce the toy and have it react dramatically to the situation (e.g., “Nooo, I don’t want to taste that broccoli!”).
Step 2:
Encourage the toy gently and playfully—use silly voices, pretend it’s nervous, or let it negotiate.
Step 3:
Invite your child to help convince the toy (“What do you think, should it try?”).
Step 4:
Let the toy try and react—maybe it loves it, maybe it’s surprised, maybe it needs another taste!
Step 5:
If your child joins in, continue with the role play and keep it lighthearted.
Extend
Silly Reactions: Have the toy give over-the-top responses after trying (e.g., “This is the BEST toothpaste ever!”).
Switch Roles: Let your child be the voice of the toy while you ‘struggle’ with something.
The “Oops” Strategy: The toy "forgets" how to do the task properly, making silly mistakes so your child can correct and guide it.
