21/01/2026
Supporting Siblings When ARFID Changes Mealtimes - how to reduce jealousy, confusion, and big feelings.
When one child lives with ARFID, it affects the whole family, especially siblings. It’s common for siblings to notice the differences in food expectations and feel confused, jealous, sad or frustrated when their ARFID sibling is allowed to eat differently. These feelings are real and valid, and supporting them through this is incredibly important and can support not only sibling relationships but the whole family dynamic.
Start with Validation
The most powerful thing you can offer is validation. When a child says, “It’s not fair that they get nuggets again” or “Why do they get ice-cream for breakfast today?” they’re not being difficult or unkind, they’re trying to make sense of their world. Validate the feeling before explaining the situation.
You might say:
“It makes sense that this feels unfair.”
“I hear that this is really hard”
“It’s okay to feel upset about this.”
Validation means you’re simply acknowledging their experience, and that their experience is real for them - even if you don’t agree. When children feel seen and understood, they’re better able to cope with differences.
Explain ARFID in a Developmentally Appropriate Way
You don’t need to go into clinical detail. A simple explanation works:
“ARFID makes eating lots of foods feel scary or overwhelming for their body. Right now, we are trying to help them to feel safe with food. This is important for you too, but in a different way because your body feels safe with more foods”.
“Every body is different and has different needs, and that’s okay - not good or bad, just different”.
This helps siblings understand that food support isn’t about preference or reward, it’s about safety and nervous system regulation.
To read more - head to our new blog “Supporting Siblings When ARFID Changes Mealtimes” link in bio
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Disclaimer: The information shared on this account is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment
