Fussy eating :: Hounslow & Richmond Community Healthcare

On this page you will find a selection of resources to help you support your child with fussy eating, including:

Webinars
Videos
Written information leaflets
Links to more support
Information on what to do if you are concerned

Fussy, restricted, or selective eating is a phase that many children go through during their development. It is often a way for them to express their independence by choosing which foods they like or dislike. This can be a very frustrating and worrying time for parents and carers.

Most children grow out of it and begin to accept a wider range of food in time. Try not to worry even if your child’s diet does seem very limited. Some children with conditions such as autism or a sensory processing disorder may also have restricted eating.

Children with fussy or restricted eating may:

Eat foods restricted number of foods within the different food groups. For example, they may eat chips and pasta but refuse rice, potatoes and bread.
Totally exclude a food group such as refusing fruit and/or vegetables completely
They may be unwilling to try new foods and have strong likes and dislikes
Prefer to eat cold, snack-type foods and refuse hot meals
Only eat certain brands or from familiar packaging
Dislike wet textured food such as sauce
Eat a meal at nursery, or with a grandparent, but refuse to eat the same meal at home

Ask for a GP appointment if:

Your child’s weight or growth is a concern
Your child’s diet is restricted to 5-10 foods or less
Their restriction of food significantly impacts their daily living such as not being able to eat in the same room as others due to the smell/sounds of others eating
You suspect your child is iron deficient or has a nutritional deficiency
Your child is chronically constipated
You suspect a food allergy