Autism & Eating Difficulties (for Families)

This session explores why eating can be challenging for autistic people, including the role of sensory processing, anxiety, physical health, and associated eating disorders.

This version is designed for parents, carers, and family members. It uses plain language and focuses on what you can do at home.

In this course you will learn how to:

• Understand the key factors that make eating difficult for autistic people.

• Recognise how sensory sensitivities (taste, texture, smell, and body signals) can affect eating.

• See the links between anxiety, stress, social experiences, and eating behaviours.

• Tell the difference between autistic eating differences and eating disorders, including ARFID, and know when to seek extra support.

• Use practical, low-pressure strategies to support eating at home.