Dear Care and Feeding,
I have a sensory disorder that makes me pretty sensitive to food texture, taste, and smell. My wife is an adventurous eater who loves all sorts of foods that are challenging for me. We’ve reached a loving compromise she’ll make a base (pasta, rice, etc.) and a side sauce, then give me the base and put on the side sauce for her portion. We are both happy with this arrangement. If I’m being honest, I want my kids to grow up like my wife. My food issues have restricted my life in a way that’s made it hard for me to eat at restaurants, travel, and generally be adventurous. I want my kids to be open-minded and excited to try new foods. Our youngest is 1 and has already noticed that Mommy and Mama eat different foods. Short of eating in the closet or out of her eyesight, how do I ensure my daughter doesn’t inherit my food pickiness? How can I encourage her to try new foods while I’m unable to do so myself?