Restricted Eating in Preschoolers with Autism: Mother Stressors and Solutions

Feeding interventions for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) focus solely on the child, not the family milieu. This qualitative study aimed to understand mothers’ perspectives on managing restricted eating among preschoolers with ASD. Focus groups were conducted with eleven mothers of preschoolers with ASD. Audio recordings were transcribed, and data analyzed for themes. Mothers experienced stressors balancing priorities of adequate nutrition with family mealtime demands and found solutions in support from other mothers, strategies from a wide array of sources, and resorting to trial and error to improve eating. Healthcare practitioners should explore and consider family stressors, competing demands, and coping skills when recommending mealtime interventions for optimal child and family well-being.