P Soup: Real Conversations – For Parents, With Parents, About Kids

Sarina Murrell

Welcome to P Soup, a podcast where I dive into child development, exploring both the everyday moments and the more complex challenges that can arise along the way. Whether you're navigating the joys and struggles of early childhood or supporting a child facing developmental difficulties, P Soup offers a warm space for honest conversations, expert insights, and real stories from parents just like you.

  1. 13 JUN

    11: Picky Eating Soup

    In this episode, we take a thoughtful and compassionate look at what "picky eating" really means — and why that label might not be as helpful as we think. We explore how picky eating often shows up as a natural part of child development, especially for kids who crave predictability in a world of ever-changing flavors and textures. You'll hear practical ideas for supporting children in mealtime routines, creating predictability, building food curiosity, and offering empowering choices. We also talk about when picky eating might be something more — like a feeding or swallowing challenge — and how to know when it’s time to seek extra support. And as a bonus, we dive into the power of labels, and how the words we use to describe our kids can shape their self-identity far beyond the dinner table. If you’ve ever felt confused, frustrated, or worried about what your child will (or won’t!) eat, this episode is for you. Let’s take the pressure off and approach mealtimes with more understanding, empathy, and hope. In this episode, we cover: 🍽️ Why the term "picky eating" is overused — and often misunderstood 🧠 The developmental reasons children may avoid certain foods 🧃 Tips to make food experiences feel safer and more predictable 🛠️ Simple ways to involve kids in food prep without pressure ❤️ How labels shape identity — and what to say instead of "picky" Mentioned: Feeding therapy and the four pillars: medical, nutrition, skill, and social-emotionalThe concept of food jags and predictable eating patternsEmpowering children through choice and ownership at meals👀 Next episode preview: We’ll be cooking up Parent Styles Soup — diving into the unique strengths, values, and challenges that shape the way we parent. Whether you're all about structure, nurturing, logic, or creative freedom, understanding your parenting style can be a powerful tool in showing up with intention.

    20 min
  2. 7 MAR

    Episode 6: Reading Books Aloud Soup

    Episode 6: Mealtime Soup – The Magic of Reading AloudReading aloud is like a superfood for the brain—boosting language skills, strengthening relationships, and even counteracting screen-time distractions! In this episode of P Soup, I dive into the science and magic behind reading aloud, sharing how it supports language development, emotional growth, and deepens the bond between you and your child. You'll hear: 📚 The 5 key benefits of reading aloud (including brain science & empathy-building!) 📖 Tips for making reading a stress-free, joyful part of your daily routine 📕 My favorite book recommendations for different ages & interests Resources Mentioned:📖 The Enchanted Hour: The Miraculous Power of Reading Aloud in the Age of Distraction – Meghan Cox Gurdon 📄 American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Policy Statement (Nov 2024): Literacy Promotion as an Essential Component of Primary Care Pediatric Practice Book Recommendations from This Episode:✨ Interactive Books: Press Here – Hervé TulletHigh Five Animals – Sandra BoyntonPeek-a-Who – Nina Laden😂 Silly Stories: Clip Clop – Nicola SmeeBedtime for Chickies – Janee Trasler📚 Longer Stories: Elephant & Piggie series – Mo WillemsWe Don’t Eat Our Classmates – Ryan T. Higgins❤️ Forever Classics: The Very Hungry Caterpillar, The Grouchy Ladybug, Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? – Eric CarleFox in Socks, One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish – Dr. Seuss💬 What I'm Reading Aloud Now: The Little Prince – Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (with my nephew)Blink – Malcolm Gladwell (with my wife)Whether you already read with your child or need a little motivation to start, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration to help you make the most of storytime. 🎧 Listen now and let’s make reading aloud a cherished part of your family’s daily life!

    28 min

About

Welcome to P Soup, a podcast where I dive into child development, exploring both the everyday moments and the more complex challenges that can arise along the way. Whether you're navigating the joys and struggles of early childhood or supporting a child facing developmental difficulties, P Soup offers a warm space for honest conversations, expert insights, and real stories from parents just like you.