Many children experience sensory feeding challenges. This occurs when a child's sensory system reacts strongly to the look, smell, taste, texture, or temperature of food.
These sensitivities can make mealtimes stressful for the whole family. Sensory feeding issues are different from “picky eating”, and is rooted in how a child processes sensory information.
Sensory Feeding
Sensory feeding is more than just picky eating.
Many children, including those with autism, experience sensory feeding challenges. This occurs when a child's sensory system reacts strongly to the look, smell, taste, texture, or temperature of food.
These sensitivities can make mealtimes stressful for the whole family. Sensory feeding issues are different from “picky eating”, and is rooted in how a child processes sensory information.
Many children experience sensory feeding challenges. This occurs when a child's sensory system reacts strongly to the look, smell, taste, texture, or temperature of food.
These sensitivities can make mealtimes stressful for the whole family. Sensory feeding issues are different from “picky eating”, and is rooted in how a child processes sensory information.
How we help:
Signs of Sensory Feeding Issues
Symptoms include, but are not limited to:
Food refusal or extreme selectivity, often limiting diet to a narrow range of preferred textures, tastes, colors, or brands
Gagging, vomiting, or crying during mealtimes
Difficulty transitioning to new textures or food types
Covering all foods in the same sauce to make everything taste similar
Refusing to eat foods if small changes are made in packaging or presentation
Showing signs of stress or anxiety during mealtimes
Pocketing food in their cheeks or overstuffing their mouth
Note: Your child doesn't need to display these symptoms, to have sensory feeding issues.
It’s important for parents and caregivers to understand that children don’t choose to have sensory challenges.
While these reactions might not make sense from an adult perspective, the fears and discomfort children experience are very real to them.
Acknowledging and validating their feelings is a crucial step in supporting them effectively.
What can I do if I suspect my child has sensory feeding issues?
If you suspect your child has sensory feeding issues, consult a doctor, paediatrician or dietitian.
By taking these initial steps, you can gather important information about your child's eating behaviors and seek appropriate professional help if needed.
“She was very patient with me as I have memory issues and needed things explained multiple times. She never made me feel bad about it.”
Father of Grace, aged 4, Doncaster
“My child has Crohn’s disease, and we have struggled for years with meal planning. My dietitian’s advice was practical and made eating less stressful.”
Mother of Muhammad, aged 11, Leeds
“Vicky was aware of his complex medical history, so she was able to tailor her advice around her multiple conditions, making the session really beneficial.”
Father of Willow, aged 6, Leeds
"My child has autism and struggles with textures of food. The dietitian was so understanding and gave me advice that understood his sensory needs rather than forcing him into a rigid diet."
Mother of Theodore, aged 12, Leeds
“I just had a meeting with my dietitian, and it was life-changing. My child has multiple allergies and intolerances, and she helped me build a balanced diet without feeling like she was missing out.”
Mother of Isla, aged 9, London
"Emma was so kind and supportive. She understood the emotional side of all of this and helped me navigate her eating, which has been a battle for years."
Mother of Sophia, aged 9, Bath
"For years, I’ve struggled with my child’s weight due to medication side effects. My dietitian finally helped me understand what was happening and what we could do about it without feeling like a bad mum."
