On today’s episode I speak with Elise Disher, early childhood consultant and advocate for thoughtful, child-centered practices. Elise dives into the concept of progressive mealtimes in early learning settings, breaking down how they work, why they matter, and how to implement them in ways that are both meaningful and practical. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to reimagine mealtime routines as opportunities for connection and learning.

Elise and I speak about:

🌸 What progressive mealtimes are and how they differ from traditional group mealtimes.

🌸 How mealtimes can shift from being rushed routines to meaningful rituals that foster connection and learning.

🌸 The role of autonomy, choice, and agency in progressive mealtimes.

🌸 Practical strategies to make progressive mealtimes work.

🌸 Addressing common challenges such as food safety, chaotic transitions, and preparing children for structured school settings.

🌸 Why intentionality and context matter - ain't no one-size-fits-all approach around here.

Elise is a mum of two and an Early Childhood Consultant and Teacher. Her mission is to create a movement in the way we educate and raise children so together we can improve the mental health outcomes of our next generation. Elise is passionate about promoting the importance of healthy attachment and developmentally responsive and attuned approaches in the first five years of life - she is BIG ON LITTLE PEOPLE!

Word of caution - this episode contains very mild explicit language.

Connect with Elise:

💫 Send her an email: hello@elisedisher.com

💫 Find her on Instagram: @elisedisher.ed

💫 Visit her website: Elise Disher

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EP 22 | Progressive Mealtimes: Yay or Nay? with Elise Disher

The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood Podcast

EP 22 | Progressive Mealtimes: Yay or Nay? with Elise Disher