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Dr. Nimali Fernando
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Ages 0–12

Nimali FernandoMD, MPH, FAAP

Pediatrician | Creator of "The Dr. Yum Project" | Feeding Expert

The Dr. Yum Project Feeding Mealtime Habits Trying New Foods Picky Eating Sensory Exploration Food Play Food Battles Veggies Healthy Growth Nutrition Basics Food Aversions Healthy Habits Family Dinners Table Manners Snack Grazing Mealtime Dynamics Sugar Limits Constant Snacking Staying Seated Fast Food Juice School Lunches Dessert Bribes Hiding Veggies

Why we partnered with Nimali & The Dr. Yum Project

We wanted a pediatrician who understands how feeding actually shows up in real life. When it comes to food, what parents really need is someone who can help them navigate the messy, everyday dynamics of the kitchen table. Known to families everywhere as "Dr. Yum," Dr. Fernando brings joyful, realistic strategies to help you build healthy habits, manage picky eating, and finally put an end to the nightly dinner fights.

About Nimali Fernando

Nimali Fernando, MD, MPH, FAAP, is a board-certified pediatrician, a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the co-author of Raising a Healthy, Happy Eater.

Rather than focusing purely on clinical nutrition metrics, Dr. Fernando looks at the behaviors, routines, and family dynamics that happen at the kitchen table. She teaches parents that success is about more than just taking a bite—helping hesitant eaters build confidence by celebrating "baby steps" and exploring food through sensory play, art, and science.

The Dr. Yum Project Dr. Yum Circles
Toolkit

The Dr. Yum Project is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping families and communities overcome barriers to eating well. Explore Dr. Fernando's favorite free tools, hacks, and video guides below to make mealtimes easier and more joyful.

What Nimali Helps With

Credentials

Selected Books

Connect with Nimali

Get Dr. Fernando's guidance, right in your pocket.