what about DOR?

Ellyn Satter's DOR or Division of Responsibility is a groundbreaking approach to child feeding that promotes a healthy and balanced relationship with food. By clearly defining the roles and responsibilities of both parents and children during mealtimes, this method empowers parents to create a positive feeding dynamic and supports children in developing lifelong healthy eating habits. 

1. Understanding the Division of Responsibility: The Division of Responsibility provides a framework for parents and children to establish their respective roles during mealtime. According to Ellyn Satter, parents are responsible for what, when, and where to eat, while children are responsible for how much and whether to eat. This division helps create a balanced and relaxed feeding environment.

2. Parental Responsibilities: As parents, our responsibility lies in deciding what foods to offer, when meals and snacks occur, and where they take place. It is essential to provide a variety of nutritious options and establish a routine that supports regular meals and structured eating times.

3. Child Responsibilities: Children, on the other hand, are responsible for determining how much food they consume and whether they eat at all. By allowing children to listen to their internal hunger and fullness cues, we encourage them to develop a healthy relationship with food and learn to self-regulate their eating habits.

4. Encouraging Autonomy and Self-Regulation: The Division of Responsibility recognizes that children are born with an innate ability to self-regulate their eating. When parents respect their child's autonomy in deciding how much to eat, it fosters a sense of trust and empowers children to develop a healthy relationship with food based on their unique needs.

5. Creating a Positive Mealtime Environment: The Division of Responsibility encourages a relaxed and enjoyable mealtime atmosphere. It is essential to offer a variety of foods, including both familiar and new ones, without pressuring or coercing children to eat. A positive and supportive environment encourages exploration and helps children develop a diverse and balanced palate.

6. Addressing Picky Eating: Picky eating is a common concern for many parents, but the Division of Responsibility provides a helpful framework for managing it. By respecting a child's autonomy and allowing them to decide which foods they want to eat, parents can reduce mealtime stress and support their child in gradually expanding their food preferences.

7. Long-Term Benefits: Implementing the Division of Responsibility lays the foundation for lifelong healthy eating habits. Children who grow up with a positive feeding dynamic tend to have a healthier relationship with food, reduced risk of disordered eating, and a greater appreciation for a variety of nutritious foods.

Ellyn Satter's Division of Responsibility is a transformative approach to child feeding that empowers parents and supports children in developing healthy eating habits. By understanding and implementing this division, parents create a nurturing mealtime environment that promotes autonomy, self-regulation, and positive food experiences. Embracing the Division of Responsibility can lead to lifelong benefits for children, fostering a healthy relationship with food and setting the stage for a lifetime of balanced and mindful eating.