Food selectivity and feeding difficulties affect up to 70% of autistic children compared to 4-13% of typically developing peers (Sharp et al., 2013). Feeding therapy in Ontario is delivered by speech-language pathologists (for oral-motor and swallowing issues) and occupational therapists (for sensory-based food aversions). Both SLP and OT feeding therapy are eligible for OAP core clinical funding. ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) requires specialized multidisciplinary treatment.
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Feeding difficulties in autistic children can stem from sensory sensitivities (texture, taste, smell aversions), oral-motor challenges, rigid behaviour patterns, anxiety about new foods, and gastrointestinal issues. Sharp et al. (2013) found that up to 70% of autistic children exhibit food selectivity, compared to 4-13% of neurotypical peers. Severe cases may meet DSM-5 criteria for ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder).
SLP-led feeding therapy addresses oral-motor coordination, swallowing safety, and food textures. OT-led feeding therapy targets sensory-based food aversions, self-feeding skills, and mealtime participation. Behavioural feeding approaches (delivered by BCBAs) use systematic desensitization and reinforcement to expand accepted foods. The Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS) approach and Beckman Oral Motor Protocol are commonly used frameworks.
Feeding difficulties in autistic children can stem from sensory sensitivities (texture, taste, smell aversions), oral-motor challenges, rigid behaviour patterns, anxiety about new foods, and gastrointestinal issues. Sharp et al. (2013) found that up to 70% of autistic children exhibit food selectivity, compared to 4-13% of neurotypical peers. Severe cases may meet DSM-5 criteria for ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder).
Left unaddressed, significant food selectivity can lead to nutritional deficiencies, growth concerns, family mealtime stress, and social participation limitations. Early intervention with a qualified feeding therapist can expand food repertoire and improve mealtime behaviour.
SLP-led feeding therapy addresses oral-motor coordination, swallowing safety, and food textures. OT-led feeding therapy targets sensory-based food aversions, self-feeding skills, and mealtime participation. Behavioural feeding approaches (delivered by BCBAs) use systematic desensitization and reinforcement to expand accepted foods. The Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS) approach and Beckman Oral Motor Protocol are commonly used frameworks.
Both SLP and OT feeding therapy are eligible for OAP core clinical funding. For severe ARFID, hospital-based multidisciplinary feeding clinics (available at SickKids, CHEO, McMaster Children's) provide team-based assessment. Wait times for hospital feeding clinics are typically 6-12 months. Private feeding therapy in Ontario costs $100-150/session.
Research
Sharp et al. (2013), "Feeding Problems and Nutrient Intake in Children with ASD: A Meta-Analysis," Pediatrics, 132(4), e903-e912
MCCSS
Ontario Autism Program Eligible Services — SLP and OT Guidelines (2024)
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Overview of SLP approaches for autism: traditional articulation, AAC, social pragmatic, and PROMPT. Learn OAP coverage, costs, and how to choose.
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Commitment to Accuracy: Our data is verified against official government reports (FAO, MCCSS), peer-reviewed scientific literature, and accessible public records. Last updated: March 24, 2026.
Verified Facts
Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) delivered to children aged 18–30 months produced significant gains in IQ, adaptive behaviour, and autism severity — some children no longer met diagnostic criteria at follow-up
Cochrane systematic review finds evidence that early intensive behavioural intervention (EIBI) may produce positive effects on adaptive behaviour and communication for young children with ASD (low certainty of evidence)
WHO recommends accessible, community-based early interventions for children with autism — timely evidence-based psychosocial interventions improve communication and social engagement
88,175, children are registered in the Ontario Autism Program
23.4%, Only 20,666 children have active funding agreements () — less than one in four