Who we are
My name is Ophelie and I am a local mom in Winchester. I created Little Food Explorers because I want children to grow up with a positive, playful relationship with food — not one shaped by pressure, fear, or frustration.
As a professional working in the food industry for over a decade and as a parent myself, I know how challenging and emotional food can be. One day a child loves carrots, the next they won’t go near them. Some kids dive into new tastes, others need time, space, and patience. And that's okay.
But beyond our kitchens, there’s a bigger picture. In the UK:
15% of children aged 2–15 are obese, and 27% are overweight;
UK adolescents get almost two thirds of their calories from ultra processed foods like packaged snacks, sweet cereals, and ready meals. These foods shape taste preferences, gut health, and future eating patterns — long before children truly understand what they’re eating.
At the moment, peer pressure tends to skew in the wrong direction — toward highly processed, convenient foods that feel “normal” because everyone else eats them.
✨ That’s when I discovered Belly Bugs. I first came across their science-based, story-driven approach in my work and when I took their approach to children, I was amazed. The children weren’t just learning about microbes; they were excited to try new fruits and vegetables because they wanted to “feed their bugs.”
My sessions gently build on that same momentum: children see others exploring colourful fruits, prepping vegetables, or tasting something new. This peer modelling, combined with the Belly Bugs storytelling, creates powerful, positive change.
My sessions are small (around 6 children), playful, and always respectful. There’s never any pressure to eat — instead, children are encouraged to interact with real foods in fun ways: touching, smelling, preparing, and eventually tasting. Over time, they grow more confident and willing to engage with what’s on their plate.
And I’ve seen the impact firsthand with my son: the more positive experiences he has with food — away from pressure or battles — the more relaxed and enjoyable our family meals have become. That’s what I want for every family: less stress, more connection, and food that brings joy instead of worry.
“My daughter has been talking non-stop about the class and wants to eat all sorts of things this week end”
What parents had to say about previous sessions
“My little one really enjoyed it and it’s been such an incentive to eat healthily”
“M. likes courgettes and red cabbage now-result!! Sounds like a lot of fun was had - she loved the workshop. Thank you!!”