How do I manage sensory issues around food? 

Parenting Perspective 

Understanding Sensory Overload 

Sensory issues around food are very real for many children with additional needs. What may look like picky eating from the outside is often a genuine sensory overload. Smells, textures, colours or temperatures can trigger distress or even fear for a sensitive child.

A Gentle Approach to New Foods 

The goal is not to force your child but to gently support them as they build trust with food over time.³ Start by noticing their ‘safe’ foods, the ones they consistently eat without stress, and keep serving these without guilt. Introduce new foods very slowly and never during a time when your child already feels anxious.⁴ 

The Role of Food Exploration and Play 

Allow your child to explore new foods in their own way. They might want to look at it, touch it or smell it long before they are ready to take a bite. Some children find food play helpful, using cutters, shaping mash or even painting with yoghurt can make unfamiliar foods feel less threatening.⁵ 

Creating a Calm, No-Pressure Environment 

If your child gags, panics or cries over new foods, it is important to pause and take a step back. Try to create a calm eating space with soft lighting and as little noise as possible. Stick to a routine with similar mealtimes, familiar plates and a no-pressure atmosphere. Avoid turning meals into a battleground.⁶ Connection and trust matter more than how much they eat in one sitting. 

If your child’s diet feels severely limited or you are worried about nutrition, do not hesitate to ask for help from a paediatric dietitian or occupational therapist. Remember, this is not your fault. Supporting a child with food sensitivities takes patience, creativity and lots of compassion, one small step at a time. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, food is a blessing, but the way we approach it must also reflect mercy and understanding. When your child struggles with food, it is not a sign of failure. It is a test of Sabr, a form of service, and a quiet act of love that Allah Almighty sees fully. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Baqarah (2), Verse 172: 

‘O you who have believed, eat from the good things which We have provided for you and be grateful to Allah… ‘

This Ayah reminds us that gratitude includes recognising what is easy and what is hard and showing thanks through patience. 

It is recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 3671, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

‘Be kind to children and perfect in your upbringing of them. ‘

This Hadith Shareef encourages us to meet even food struggles with tenderness and calm. Make sincere Dua for ease at mealtimes, for your child’s heart to feel calm and safe, and for wisdom in your approach. Trust that every small adaptation, a softened texture, a favourite plate, a gentle smile, counts as an act of Ibadah when done with love. May Allah Almighty reward your perseverance and place Barakah in every bite your child takes, even the ones that take weeks to come.