Food and dish bombs

[2cuteboys]

For the 17 month old, my only suggestion would be to catch him before he throws it… which means being on top of him from the second you think he's starting to fill up, then grabbing it before he decides to throw (or as he's throwing it), and guide it down (to the table if he has a tray or further away from him if he's at the table). Then praise him "good job not throwing your food! I'm so happy you decided to put that on the table instead. You can say 'all done' and I'll take it away." Throwing when they're done is trickier because if you take it away after they throw it, that's pretty much what they were going for. All you can do is make him use the appropriate action and then praise praise praise so that becomes the most desirable option.

The other one I would explain in simple language "don't push, say 'more.'" Initially i think you might have to deal with the pushing, but don't give him anything until he says more. It's a simple enough word that he can mimic or at least make an attempt. Once he's got that down you can work on the pushing. I'd give a lot of warnings throughout the meal 'remember, don't push, say 'more.'" If nothing, I'd start getting tough on him: if you push, your plate goes away and you're done. If he understands everything, he should be able to get it, it's just easier for him to shove his plate away than practice new language. How long has he been with you?

[Sassygirl]

I have all toddlers in my care so every day there is a thrower at lunchtime.
I will give a glare with a "No throwing!" then if it happens again their tray is removed and they can sit there in their chair until mealtime is over. My highchairs have them firmly buckled in so they can't climb out. I also make a point of having the food thrower be the LAST one that gets down. Usually does the trick.

[AcornsFalling]

The 24m old has been with me since June. I suspect that he gets away with it at home and it's just a bad habit he has developed.
My son, 17m, has been doing this for a while now, and it's gone on too long.
Thanks to all for the great suggestions!