Intensive Multidisciplinary Intervention for Young Children With ARFID: Clinical Outcomes and Parental Experiences From a Prospective Cohort Study.

objectiveTo assess clinical outcomes and parental experiences following an intensive multidisciplinary intervention (IMI) for children with Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID).

methodA prospective cohort of 28 children (aged 2-8 years) with severe eating difficulties, all meeting ARFID diagnostic criteria at baseline, participated in a 3-day assessment and an 8-day IMI involving guided mealtimes, play-based exposures, nutritional counseling, and caregiver coaching. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Pica, ARFID, and Rumination Disorder Interview (PARDI) at baseline and at 7-15 months post-intervention. Parental experience was evaluated using the Experience of Service Questionnaire (ESQ) and the study-specific Eating Intervention Experience Questionnaire (EIEQ).

resultsAt follow-up, 27 of 28 children continued to meet ARFID criteria; however, overall symptom severity decreased significantly (M = 3.55 → 2.57, d = 0.80, p < 0.001), with reductions in both the sensory (M = 2.77 → 2.21, d = 0.63, p = 0.002) and low-interest profiles (M = 3.48 → 2.50, d = 0.93, p < 0.001), alongside improvements in nutritional status and growth-related criteria. Parents reported high satisfaction with the intervention, valuing the multidisciplinary approach, tailored support, and practical strategies. DISCUSSION: Findings suggest that intensive, multidisciplinary, nondirective interventions may yield clinically meaningful benefits for young children with severe ARFID, particularly those with combined sensory sensitivity and low interest in eating profiles. Although full remission was uncommon within the follow-up period, the intervention supported symptom reduction and caregiver competence. Larger controlled studies are needed to establish efficacy and guide development of sustainable models of care.