Limited Diet and Food Refusal in Children
Supporting Food Acceptance and Improving Mealtime Behavior
At KidsHeart Medical Center, we understand how distressing it can be when a child refuses food or eats only a very limited diet.
Our pediatric occupational therapists work closely with families to understand mealtime challenges — and gently support children in developing positive feeding experiences.
We provide specialized feeding therapy across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain, as part of our broader Pediatric Occupational Therapy services.
What Is Limited Diet or Food Refusal?
Some children consistently avoid entire food groups, resist trying new textures or flavors, or display strong aversions to mealtimes.
This can result from sensory sensitivities, developmental delays, anxiety, or past negative feeding experiences.
In some cases, food refusal can lead to poor growth, nutritional concerns, or family stress at meals.
When Should You Seek Help?
Consider an evaluation if your child:
- Eats fewer than 15 foods consistently
- Avoids entire textures (e.g., crunchy, soft, mixed foods)
- Gags, vomits, or cries when presented with certain foods
- Has strong reactions to smells or appearances of food
- Shows extreme preference for sameness in meals
- Experiences weight loss, slow growth, or fatigue
- Displays anxiety or distress around mealtimes
Even if your child is growing well, persistent food struggles can affect family dynamics and your child’s overall development.
What to Expect in Feeding Therapy
Our approach is child-led, calm, and developmentally appropriate. Sessions may include:
- Initial assessment of sensory, motor, and behavioral factors
- Creating a relaxed, pressure-free feeding environment
- Sensory play with food to increase familiarity and acceptance
- Gradual exposure to new tastes, smells, and textures
- Collaboration with dietitians if nutritional support is needed
- Parent coaching to support consistent routines at home
Progress is built over time, with small successes that foster confidence and curiosity around food.
Why Choose KidsHeart?
- Therapy provided by pediatric-trained occupational therapists
- Safe, supportive spaces designed to reduce feeding anxiety
- Coordinated care with pediatricians, dietitians, and psychologists if needed
- Clear communication and coaching for families throughout the process
- Located in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain — making regular therapy easy to access
We treat feeding not just as a function — but as an emotional and developmental journey.
Building Better Mealtimes Together
You’re not alone in this. At KidsHeart, we support families facing feeding challenges with kindness, patience, and proven strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Some food preferences are typical in toddlers. But if it limits nutrition or causes stress, evaluation can help.
It can stem from sensory processing difficulties, past trauma (e.g., choking), medical issues, or anxiety.
Some children improve in a few sessions. Others benefit from ongoing support. We guide this based on need.
We use playful, non-pressuring techniques. Building trust is always our first step.
Yes. Parent involvement is encouraged — both during therapy and at home for follow-through.