South Asian Parents and the Pressure Around Kids’ Eating

If you grew up in a South Asian home, you’ve probably heard phrases like “finish your plate” or “eat more, you’re too thin.” Our culture ties love and care so deeply to food that it can be hard to separate nourishment from pressure.

But sometimes, our good intentions make eating stressful for kids. The goal isn’t for them to finish everything — it’s for them to build a healthy, happy relationship with food.

As a Sri Lankan mum, I get it. I’ve learned that food doesn’t have to be about control — it can be about connection. That’s what I want Badagini Food to represent: a small step toward balance, joy, and less mealtime stress.