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Engaged Eaters Program-Early Development (EEP-ED) Delivered via Telehealth for Young Autistic Children: A Clinical
Asmita Mudholkar1,2,3, Brittany St John1,4, Larissa Korostenski5
1Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia.
Physical & Occupational Therapy in Pediatrics
|June 24, 2025
Summary
Telehealth feeding programs for autistic toddlers are feasible and effective. Caregiver-mediated interventions improved feeding outcomes, increased food repertoire, and reduced parental stress.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric feeding disorders
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Telehealth interventions
Background:
- Feeding difficulties are common in young autistic children, causing significant caregiver stress.
- Caregiver-mediated feeding programs in the home are a potential solution, but their feasibility and effectiveness are under-researched.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the feasibility and impact of the Early Development (ED)-Telehealth program for a young autistic toddler with feeding difficulties.
- To assess parent satisfaction, telehealth delivery, family-centered feeding goals, parental stress, and perceived competence.
Main Methods:
- A 28-month-old autistic toddler and caregivers participated in the Early Development (ED)-Telehealth program delivered via telehealth.
- Feasibility was assessed through parent satisfaction and telehealth delivery questionnaires.
- Family-centered feeding goals were measured using Goal-Attainment Scaling (GAS).
Main Results:
- Family-centered feeding goals were achieved, including a 14-food increase in the child's dietary repertoire and independent drinking/eating.
- The mother reported high satisfaction, decreased parenting stress, and increased parenting competence.
Conclusions:
- Caregiver-mediated interventions delivered via telehealth are a feasible and effective approach for addressing feeding challenges in young autistic children.
- Telehealth offers a promising delivery mode for supporting families with pediatric feeding difficulties.
