Textbook Problem

Josiah, a 22-month-old boy, lives with his mother and grandmother. He is at an early childhood center during the weekdays, and due to his mother’s work schedule does not get home until after 6 p.m. most days. His mother and grandmother allow him to walk around the house with apple juice in a sippy cup while they are preparing dinner. He also “demands” snacks such as crackers, slices of cheese, and cookies. When they attempt to put Josiah in his booster chair at the table, he fights with them and yells, “NO chair!” Mother and grandmother often eat quickly in front of the television while feeding Josiah from their plates while he also watches TV. Josiah’s mother and grandmother are frustrated and are concerned that he is not eating enough for dinner. The early childhood staff also state that they are having a difficult time with him sitting down at lunch time.

Should Josiah be encouraged to eat all the food on his plate before he is allowed to get down from his booster chair and play? Why or why not?