Caregiver perspectives regarding the impact of feeding difficulties on mealtime participation for primary school-aged autistic children and their families

The findings highlight that autistic children with feeding difficulties and their families may experience a range of mealtime participation challenges. Caregivers also reported feelings of failure, stress, and judgement; some of which stemmed from interactions with extended family, friends, school, and society which increased their difficulties when navigating mealtime participation. Addressing the challenges requires a strengths-based approach including creating inclusive and accessible community environments that accommodate diverse feeding preferences and support the well-being of neurodivergent children and their families.