Specialist feeding support for children with ARFID or autism.
We provide neurodiversity-affirming, respectful feeding therapy tailored to children with Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) and autism.
Feeding challenges require understanding, not pressure.
Feeding challenges require understanding, not pressure. Children with ARFID or autism often face unique barriers to eating, from sensory sensitivities to anxiety or fear around food. At Cubs Paediatric Dietetics, we know these challenges are not about being “picky”—they are genuine difficulties that call for empathy and expertise. That’s why we take a respectful, neurodiversity-affirming approach to feeding therapy.
We work to understand the sensory and emotional drivers behind feeding challenges, build gradual and safe exposure to new foods, and support your child’s confidence and autonomy at mealtimes. Parents are coached with practical strategies that reduce stress and guilt, while collaboration with psychologists, occupational therapists, and speech pathologists ensures joined-up, holistic care.
Common concerns we can help with:
- Extremely limited range of accepted foods
- Refusal to eat entire food groups
- Anxiety or fear related to food or eating
- Reliance on supplements, milk, or formula
- Poor growth linked to restricted diet
- Sensory sensitivities driving food refusal
Our Approach
We use a respectful, neurodiversity-affirming approach to feeding therapy. That means:
- Understanding the sensory and emotional drivers behind feeding challenges
- Building gradual, safe exposure to new foods
- Supporting your child’s confidence and autonomy at mealtimes
- Coaching parents with strategies that reduce stress and guilt
- Working collaboratively with psychologists, occupational therapists and speech pathologists when needed
What to Expect
1. Comprehensive Assessment
Exploring your child’s feeding history, growth, and sensory profile.
2. Tailored Feeding Plan
Practical strategies that support your child’s individual needs
3. Ongoing Support
Continued guidance as your child builds confidence and expands their diet at their own pace.
Available in-person at our Brisbane clinic or via secure telehealth.
Together, we’ll support your child in building a safer, more positive relationship with food.