What this section is about
This covers restricted eating, sensory food issues, refusal, choking risks, overeating, forgetting to eat, needing supervision, safe foods, ARFID-type concerns and hydration.
Avoid saying
- They are a picky eater.
- They are just fussy.
- They only eat beige food.
Better ways to explain
- My child has restricted eating linked to sensory sensitivities and anxiety.
- They require adult support to eat enough and maintain a safe diet.
- Without support, my child may refuse food, become distressed or eat an extremely limited diet.
Example wording
My child has significant sensory-based food restrictions. They require adult support, reassurance and careful preparation of safe foods. Mealtimes can take a long time and may cause distress, refusal or meltdown. Without adult support, their diet would be very limited and they may not eat or drink enough.
Evidence that helps
- Food diary
- Dietitian letter
- records
- Weight concerns
- School dinner notes
- ARFID referral
- Photos/list of safe foods
Common mistakes
- Calling it fussy eating
- Forgetting hydration
- Forgetting choking or stuffing food
- Forgetting food refusal
- Forgetting emotional support at meals
Part of the Bright Steps Ultimate Guide. For the full interactive walkthrough with printable templates, sign in and visit the DLA Guide.