There are many reasons that a child may pocket food rather than swallowing it - some include: Being afraid to swallow due to a past choking incident Preventing others from force feeding Protecting their airway (and knowing that it is not safe to swallow) An immature swallow pattern can prevent them from swallowing appropriately Limited awareness/sensation of the food in their mouth Enlarged tonsils/adenoids The first step to help your child at mealtimes (no matter what the ca