A PARENT’S POCKET GUIDE TO SUPPORTING A CHILD WITH ARFID
A concise, practical six-page guide for parents and carers who want to understand a child’s restrictive eating and respond with greater safety, clarity and compassion. It explains the different ways ARFID can affect a child, including sensory sensitivities, fear after difficult experiences, low interest in food and mixed presentations. It also recognises that autism, ADHD, interoception, anxiety, pain and other health needs can shape a child’s experience.
The pocket guide focuses on protecting nourishment and reliable foods, lowering pressure at home, communicating with school and relatives, preparing for appointments, and knowing when to seek health advice. It offers practical language and small steps while making clear that food exploration and food chaining must be paced around the child and may need guidance from qualified professionals.
A clearly labelled “From My Side of the Table” section shares Maggie Learoyd’s personal experience of ARFID. Her account is presented as one person’s lived experience, not a template for every child. The guide is educational and does not replace an individual assessment, medical advice or a child’s care plan.
This pocket-size guide is a concise companion to the full ARFID guides. The full guides are in the Courses section under Coaching.
Space to Breathe Therapy
