Listening to Families Videos

Ursula McCulloch Consultant Clinical Psychologist – Paediatric Feeding team explains what ARFID is and notes the impacts that ARFID can have on children. She notes that ARFID may affect 5% of children.

Ursula McCulloch Consultant Clinical Psychologist – Paediatric Feeding team explains the difference between ARFID and Fussy or Picky eating and the different behaviours associated with each. She notes that when nutritional needs are not being met is when concerns arise.

Ursula McCulloch Consultant Clinical Psychologist – Paediatric Feeding team explains that ARFID is a complex issue – notes that children with ARFID often have sensory issues, some are super tasters. She talks about other factors that might lead to a negative experience of some foods. She talks about nutritional issues and also when a child is showing extreme distress when specific foods are presented.

Ursula McCulloch Consultant Clinical Psychologist – Paediatric Feeding team talks about what to do and what not to do. She identifies a number of approaches that don’t help – reinforce the problem. She shares strategies that parents can you use that will help.

Ursula McCulloch Consultant Clinical Psychologist – Paediatric Feeding team explains why it’s important that a parent addresses concerns. She notes the impacts that ARFID can have including impact on physical health, mental wellbeing and social interaction.

Ursula McCulloch Consultant Clinical Psychologist – Paediatric Feeding team explains that vitamin and mineral deficiencies can impact on various parts of the body. She notes the importance of involving the General Practitioner.

Ursula McCulloch Consultant Clinical Psychologist – Paediatric Feeding team notes that food is such a complete sensory experience – look, texture, smell. She explains the role of the senses when engaging with children with ARFID.

Ursula McCulloch Consultant Clinical Psychologist – Paediatric Feeding team explains what food jag is – children tire of eating the same food over and over again. She notes that there is a risk that children then lose that food from their diet. She shares strategies to ensure children continue to eat a range of foods.

Ursula McCulloch Consultant Clinical Psychologist – Paediatric Feeding team talks about managing ARFID in the school environment. She notes that being “forceful” doesn’t work. She explains the importance of working with the school to ensure that the student eats their food – discusses school camp.

Ursula McCulloch Consultant Clinical Psychologist – Paediatric Feeding team notes that ARFID is present in the general population. ARFID can develop from an early age – some children outgrow it, others don’t.

Ursula McCulloch Consultant Clinical Psychologist – Paediatric Feeding team talks about how rewards can be used in a positive way. She notes that food should not be used as a reward. She gives examples of rewards that work.

Ursula McCulloch Consultant Clinical Psychologist – Paediatric Feeding team notes the importance of parents not giving up on the child’s exposure to food. She talks about maintaining a positive, fun relationship with the child and food.