Children with ARFID may avoid social situations related to food, such as school cafeterias, birthday parties, or field trips. The pressure to eat in these environments can cause them emotional distress, leading them to feel uncomfortable or stressed when faced with situations where they are expected to try new foods or share meals with others. Here are some guidelines that schools can follow to support these students in the school cafeteria:

• Offer a variety of food options and allow them to choose what they want to eat, respecting their preferences and aversions.
• Do not force or coerce people to try new foods.
• Introduce new foods gradually.
• Consider allowing them to bring their own food or to select the day they want to stay in the school cafeteria based on the menu.
• Create a relaxed and pressure-free atmosphere during meals.
• Regularly monitor student progress and adjust strategies as needed.
• Maintain open communication with families and the health team to ensure that the established goals are being met.