Understanding Fussy Eating: When to Seek Support and How Early Intervention Can Help

by Ailie | Dec 9, 2025 | Fussy Eating, Early Intervention, Early Intervention OT, Early Intervention Speech Therapy, Feeding Therapy, Occupational Therapy for Kids | 0 comments

Fussy eating is one of the most common concerns families share with us—especially during the toddler and preschool years. Almost every child will go through phases of refusing foods, preferring certain textures, or wanting the “same meal again!” But when picky eating starts to impact your child’s growth, routines or family life, it may be time to look a little deeper.

At Day by Day Early Intervention, we support children and families across Adelaide, including at our Port Adelaide clinic and through our mobile community-based services, to build confidence and connection around mealtimes.

Why Do Children Become Fussy Eaters?

Fussy eating usually has more than one cause. Some common factors include:

1. Sensory Processing Differences

Many children are sensitive to certain textures, smells, temperatures or sounds at the table. A food that feels “slimy” or “crunchy” can be overwhelming for a child whose sensory system is still developing.

2. Developmental and Oral-Motor Skills

Children who find chewing difficult, tire easily, or have delayed oral-motor skills may naturally avoid foods that feel too hard to manage.

3. Medical or Gastrointestinal Discomfort

Reflux, constipation or food intolerances can make eating uncomfortable leading children to avoid certain foods altogether.

4. Anxiety and Routine Changes

Mealtimes can feel unpredictable for some children. Big emotions, changes in routine or pressure to try new foods can increase stress and reduce appetite.

Signs Fussy Eating May Need Professional Support

It’s completely normal for children to have preferences. However, the following signs may suggest it’s time to seek help:

Your child eats fewer than 10–15 foods
Strong reactions to the look, smell or texture of foods
Refusal of entire food groups (e.g., all proteins or all fruits)
Gagging, choking or difficulty chewing
Tantrums or distress at mealtimes
Limited weight gain or slow growth
Meals regularly take longer than 40 minutes
Stress for parents or siblings at mealtimes

If these sound familiar, you’re not alone and support is available.

How Speech Pathologists and Occupational Therapists Help

Our team works with families day by day (literally!) to turn mealtimes into moments of connection, confidence and exploration. Support may include:

✨ Sensory-Based Feeding Approaches

Helping children gradually explore new textures, smells and visual presentations in a safe, pressure-free way.

✨ Oral-Motor Skill Development

Strengthening chewing, tongue movement and endurance for children who find eating physically challenging.

✨ Parent Coaching & Mealtime Routines

We work with families to establish calm, predictable routines and language that supports confidence without pressure.

✨ Play-Based Food Exploration

Using play, creativity and curiosity to help children build familiarity before tasting.

✨ Collaboration with Health Professionals

If needed, we may work alongside GPs, dietitians, psychologists or paediatricians to ensure a holistic plan.

Simple Strategies You Can Try at Home

Here are a few family-friendly strategies that align with evidence-based approaches:

1. Keep Mealtimes Calm and Predictable

A simple routine—same time, similar structure—helps children feel safe.

2. Serve “Familiar Foods” With New Foods

Always include 1–2 foods your child reliably eats alongside something new.

3. Let Children Explore Before Eating

Touching, smelling or licking a food is progress—learning happens long before chewing.

4. Avoid Pressure

Phrases like “just one bite” or “you have to try this” can increase anxiety.
Try instead: “You can explore this however you like.”

5. Celebrate Small Wins

A tiny touch, a smell or even having a new food on the plate is still a positive step.

When to Reach Out

If mealtimes are becoming stressful, or your child’s eating is very limited, early support can make a big difference. Our Speech Pathologists and Occupational Therapists work with children across Adelaide through:

Port Adelaide clinic sessions
Community and home visits
Childcare, kindy and school settings

Every child—and every family—is unique. Our approach is warm, collaborative and strengths-focused, helping children build confidence at their own pace.

Book an Appointment or Learn More

Ready to chat about your child’s feeding needs?
We’d love to support you.

👉 Contact us to arrange an appointment or add your child to our intake list.
Together, we can make mealtimes calmer, happier and more enjoyable—day by day. 💛