Picky eating and sensory challenges

Picky eating, also known as fussy, faddy or choosy eating, is usually classified as part of a spectrum of feeding difficulties.  You may notice an unwillingness to eat familiar foods or to try new foods, as well as strong food preferences. The consequences may include poor dietary variety during early childhood.

This video covers contributing factors to picky eating and steps care givers can take to help a child expand on the foods they eat.

There’s a focus on the sensory challenges which can hinder successful mealtimes and what care givers should do.

Problem feeding and sensory challenges part 1

This video provides an overview of feeding difficulties, causes to consider, and parental experience. It’s designed to give you an understanding of a child’s sensory experiences relating to eating.

Problem feeding and sensory challenges – Part 2

This video explores the steps you can take to help your child at mealtimes. This includes providing correct seating and considering cutlery options.

It also explains how to look for common sensory patterns in what foods your child accepts and how to encourage exploring new foods in a non-threatening way.

Problem feeding and sensory challenges – Part 3

This webinar explores what you can do to help best prepare your child for mealtimes and sensory strategies and tips for during the mealtime and after. It also explores how to introduce new foods to your child.

Problem feeding and sensory challenges – Part 4

This video explores tactile sensitivity. It also explains how to help your child participate in tactile activities as part of expanding their learning about different food textures.

See our table to grade textures presented in play for children with tactile sensitivity.

More information

See our picky eaters resources