Selective Eating / Picky Eating

Children may have extremely narrow food preferences, rejecting entire food groups or refusing specific textures.

While common in younger kids, severe picky eating that persists or leads to nutritional gaps may indicate an underlying disorder.

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)

Characterized by extreme pickiness or low appetite that’s not explained by other medical conditions.

Can lead to significant weight loss, poor growth, or nutritional deficiencies.

Binge Eating

Involves consuming large amounts of food quickly and feeling a loss of control during the episode.

May occur in secret and can be followed by guilt or shame.

Hair Eating (Trichophagia)

Some children may compulsively eat hair, which can be related to anxiety, stress, or an impulse-control disorder.

May cause digestive issues (hairballs or blockages) and warrants medical and mental health evaluation.

Male Child Eating Disorder

Eating disorders can affect boys just as seriously as girls.

Stigma or lack of awareness may delay diagnosis and treatment.

Key Point: If you notice persistent patterns of restrictive eating, bingeing, or odd consumption habits, consult a pediatrician or mental health professional. Early detection can prevent severe physical and emotional complications.

Offer Balanced, Consistent Meals

Establish mealtime routines to reduce anxiety around eating.

Include a variety of nutrient-rich foods; allow the child to choose from multiple healthy options.

Respect Appetites and Preferences

Encourage trying new foods without forcing.

Offer “safe foods” (foods the child likes) alongside new or less familiar items to lessen resistance.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Praise small steps, such as tasting a new food or finishing a balanced meal.

Avoid punishments or bribes; they can create negative associations with eating.

Focus on Nutrient-Dense Choices

Smoothies, soups, and purees for vegetables or proteins for picky eaters.

Fortified shakes or supplements (with a healthcare provider’s guidance) may help fill nutritional gaps.

Actionable Tip: Involve your child in meal planning and grocery shopping. They’re more likely to try foods they helped pick out or prepare.

Consult Professionals

Start with your pediatrician for medical evaluation to rule out physical causes of eating problems.

Follow up with mental health professionals (child psychologists, therapists) specializing in eating disorders.

Family Support & Education

Learn about healthy nutrition, portion sizes, and emotional triggers for disordered eating.

Establish open communication; encourage children to voice concerns or discomfort about food without judgment.

Monitor Physical & Emotional Health

Keep track of growth patterns, energy levels, and mental well-being.

Address any concerning changes immediately—sharp weight loss, severe nutritional deficiencies, or extreme behaviors.

Creating a Positive Mealtime Atmosphere

Minimize distractions, like TV or phones, during meals to encourage mindful eating.

Reduce pressure by avoiding power struggles; instead, gently encourage tasting new foods.

Actionable Tip: Seek early intervention—the sooner you address problematic eating behaviors, the higher the likelihood of preventing long-term complications.

Therapeutic Interventions

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or family-based therapy can address underlying anxiety or sensory sensitivities.

Exposure Therapy helps children gradually become more comfortable with new textures and tastes.

Sensory Considerations

Many selective eaters are sensitive to texture, smell, or color. Experiment with different cooking methods (e.g., roasting vegetables for a crunchy texture versus steaming for soft).

Present foods separately (instead of mixed together) for children who dislike combined textures.

Collaborative Efforts

Work with a pediatric therapist for a balanced meal plan.

Team up with occupational therapists if sensory issues play a big role in your child’s eating habits.

Children and teens with OCD can experience emotional outbursts or “tantrums” when they’re prevented from performing their compulsions or face intense anxiety. These outbursts are not just typical mood swings; they often stem from extreme fear or distress related to their obsessions.

Triggers: Interrupting a ritual, challenging irrational thoughts, or being rushed through a routine.

De-escalation: A calm, empathetic approach—acknowledging their distress while gently reinforcing boundaries—can be more effective than punishment.

Actionable Tip

Validate their feelings without enabling the compulsion. For instance, say, “I see you’re really anxious right now. Let’s try a grounding exercise together,” instead of allowing the child to carry on with a potentially harmful or time-consuming ritual.