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Selective Eating, Restricted Diets and ARFID
Selective eating is very common in young children and, for many, it is a normal stage of development that a child will grow out of with time, exposure to new foods, and support. We regularly work with families in this space — helping to reduce mealtime stress, expand food variety, and support balanced nutrition in a gentle and practical way.
However, for some children, selective eating becomes more persistent and inflexible. In neurodivergent children, particularly those with Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD feeding challenges can be more complex — shaped by sensory sensitivities, rigid thinking, strong routines, lack of appetite and heightened anxiety around food. Our approach is neuro-affirming, respectful, and tailored to meet the child where they are, without pressure or shame.
We also work with children who meet the criteria for Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) — a feeding disorder that goes beyond typical fussy eating. Children with ARFID may present in one or more of the following ways:
• Sensory-based avoidance: Refusal of foods based on taste, texture, smell, or appearance
• Low appetite or lack of interest in eating: Eating very little due to low hunger cues or disinterest in food
• Fear-based avoidance: Avoidance of food due to fear of choking, vomiting, or other negative experiences
In many cases, ARFID is unrecognised or misunderstood. Our team is experienced in identifying feeding presentations that align with ARFID and working collaboratively with families to build trust, safety, and nutritional adequacy. Sessions are child-led, flexible, and grounded in both clinical knowledge and compassion.
Whether your child is navigating typical selective eating, neurodivergent feeding challenges, or ARFID — we’re here to help.
At Happy Eaters, we support children and adolescents with a range of eating concerns. Our dietitian's are Credentialed Eating Disorder Dietitian's which means we are trained and experienced in working with young people facing eating disorders such as Anorexia Nervosa.
These conditions are sadly becoming more common in our community, and early support is vital. We work compassionately with young people and their families to promote positive body image, rebuild trust with food, and support nutritional and emotional recovery in a safe and non-judgemental space.
Happy Eaters School
Happy Eaters School is a fun and interactive program designed to help children make friends with foods. Small groups of children attend Food School with their parents. We invite children and parents to interact with a range of foods in a fun and non-threatening way. Happy Eaters School is run fortnightly over a school term. Sessions can be run for small groups of home schooled children at home as well as small groups of preschoolers.
Infant Feeding Difficulties, Food Allergies & Intolerances
Infant Feeding Difficulties
For many babies, learning to eat solids is a natural and gradual process—but for some, it can be more challenging. At Happy Eaters, we support families when feeding doesn’t go to plan. Our team works closely with you to ensure your baby’s nutritional needs are met, even when solids are slow to progress. We recognise that some babies may also need input from a paediatric speech therapist, and we’re here to collaborate as needed. Our goal is to help keep your baby nutritionally safe and supported during this important stage of development.
Food Allergies and Intolerances
We are experienced in supporting babies and children with food allergies and intolerances, helping families navigate this often confusing and stressful space. While food allergies are generally easier to diagnose, food intolerances can be more subtle and complex, requiring careful observation and guidance. We work with families to help identify when food may be contributing to symptoms, and provide support around appropriate testing—especially in cases where coeliac disease may be a concern. With expert dietetic support, we ensure that your child remains nutritionally safe and well-nourished, even when certain foods need to be removed from the diet.
Feeding Therapy
At Happy Eaters, our dietitians and allied health assistants provide specialised feeding therapy sessions for children and adolescents who struggle with eating. Many of the children we see are highly selective eaters who experience significant anxiety or fear around food, making it hard for them to try new foods. Our therapy focuses on building trust and comfort around food through gentle, child-led strategies. We use evidence-based techniques and hands-on food play to help children feel safer and more confident when interacting with food. Our goal is to reduce pressure, support curiosity, and make mealtimes feel more positive for your child.
Telehealth Sessions
Something good to come from the covid pandemic was our confidence to deliver telehealth sessions. We are well aware that health services are not always accessible in all locations, and sometimes it is just easier to attend a session in the comfort of your own home. We are flexible and accommodating and can easily meet your needs if you feel like a Telehealth session is the best option for you.