Overview
Diet and eating well is important for all people. But especially those with additional needs. A nutritious diet supports physical health, emotional wellbeing, and learning. However, many children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities face unique challenges around food and eating. There is a range of support available to help families navigate these challenges and promote healthy eating habits.
Diet matters
Nutrition plays a vital role in the health, development, and wellbeing of children and young people. A well-balanced diet:
- Enhances brain development and cognitive function
- Improves concentration, memory, and emotional regulation
- Supports physical growth and immune function
Common challenges
Children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities may experience:
- Gastrointestinal issues like constipation or reflux
- Food allergies or intolerances
- Selective or restrictive eating due to sensory sensitivities (such as texture, smell, colour)
- Nutrient deficiencies, especially in vitamins D, B12, calcium, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids
- Physical difficulties with chewing or swallowing
These challenges can affect energy levels, mood, and overall wellbeing.
Resources and guidance
Healthy Somerset has information about the Healthy Start Scheme and tips and recipes for budget friendly food.
Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership have food activities, ideas and resources.
Somerset Children and Young People’s Health and Wellbeing also have more information about food and hydration and the National Child Measurement Programme.
The NHS Patient Webinars offer practical advice, handouts, and videos on topics such as:
- Food allergy in children
- Weight management in children
- Restricted, fussy or selective eating in children
- Diabetes in children
- Low lactose diets in children
You can also find information for all ages on conditions such as:
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Reflux
- Constipation
Somerset Parent Carer Forum WISE Up Workshops cover a variety of topics including:
- Autism and eating difficulties
- Understanding avoidant restrictive food intake difficulties
The Children and Young People’s Therapy Service have a range of advice sheets to support with topics such as:
- Coping with lumps
- Developing cutlery skills
- Finger feeding
- Trying new foods
Services to help
Support is available from a range of professionals, including:
- Health Visiting Service – for support with weaning and any eating and drinking issues in the early years
- Nutrition and dietetics – for nutrition advice, meal planning and managing deficiencies
- Speech and language therapy – for swallowing difficulties and oral-motor development
- Occupational therapy – for advice to support managing the sensory aspects of eating and drinking
- Medical care – for managing metabolic or digestive conditions
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service – for eating disorders
While some services accept self-referrals, it’s best to speak to your GP, healthcare professional, or hospital consultant to explore the most appropriate support.