As parents, it can be hard to know whether your child’s eating habits or growth patterns are part of normal development, or are a sign they may need extra support. That’s where a paediatric dietitian can help.
Whether you’re navigating fussy eating, food allergies, digestive concerns or growth worries, working with a dietitian ensures your child’s nutrition supports their health and development. In this article, we’ll explore when to see a paediatric dietitian, what issues they can help with, and how Telehealth consults make support accessible across the Sunshine Coast.
What Is a Paediatric Dietitian?
A paediatric dietitian is an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) who specialises in nutrition for babies, children and teenagers. They assess growth, food intake, medical history and lifestyle factors to provide tailored nutrition plans for children’s unique needs.
Unlike general nutrition advice you may find online, dietetic recommendations are evidence-based and personalised. This ensures your child receives the right nutrients for their stage of growth and that it fits your lifestyle.
Signs Your Child May Need a Paediatric Dietitian
1. Slow or faltering growth
If your child is not gaining weight or growing as expected, a dietitian can assess their intake and recommend strategies to boost nutrition while keeping meals realistic for families.
2. Rapid or excessive weight gain
Growth charts and BMI-for-age percentiles are key tools dietitians use to monitor whether weight gain is within a healthy range. Early support can prevent long-term health risks.
3. Food allergies and intolerances
Managing allergies (such as cow’s milk protein allergy) or intolerances (like lactose or FODMAP sensitivities) can feel overwhelming. A paediatric dietitian can help you create safe and balanced meal plans that avoid triggers without limiting nutrition.
4. Coeliac disease
After diagnosis, families often struggle with navigating gluten-free diets. In paediatrics, this is especially true for school lunches, parties and eating out. A dietitian ensures nutritional adequacy while avoiding gluten.
5. Digestive issues (constipation, reflux, tummy pain)
Nutrition plays a huge role in gut health. Dietitians can help manage fibre intake, hydration and food routines to reduce digestive discomfort in children.
6. Fussy or selective eating
Fussy eating is common, but if mealtimes are stressful or food variety is very limited, support from a dietitian can help children learn to expand their food choices without pressure.
7. Tube feeding and blended diets
Families of children with feeding tubes often need guidance on nutrition requirements, recipe safety and balancing home-prepared feeds. A dietitian ensures safe, nutritionally complete tube feeding plans.
Benefits of Seeing a Paediatric Dietitian
-
Evidence-based advice tailored to your child’s medical and developmental needs.
-
Family-centred strategies that fit into daily life.
-
Growth monitoring with clear, practical recommendations.
-
Telehealth convenience accessible to families across the Sunshine Coast and beyond.
When to Book an Appointment
You don’t need to wait for a referral from your GP or paediatrician (though many families are referred this way). If you’ve noticed any of the signs above, or simply want reassurance about your child’s nutrition, you can book directly with a paediatric dietitian.
Early support means less stress, fewer mealtime battles, and confidence that your child is getting the nutrients they need.
See our 1:1 consults page to book.
FAQs
Do I need a referral to see a paediatric dietitian?
No referral is required. You can book directly. However, some Medicare or private health rebates may need a referral from your GP. Please email easyfeedingco@gmail.com prior to booking if you have a referral from the GP to check your eligibility.
Can I access paediatric dietitian support via Telehealth?
Yes, Telehealth is ideal for families on the Sunshine Coast, offering flexible, private and convenient appointments from home.
How many sessions will my child need?
This varies. Some families need just 1–2 sessions for reassurance, while others benefit from ongoing support, especially with complex feeding issues or allergies.
Knowing when to see a paediatric dietitian can make all the difference in your child’s health and your family’s mealtime stress. If your child is struggling with growth, allergies, coeliac disease, digestive issues, or fussy eating, support is available.
As a paediatric dietitian offering Telehealth consults across the Sunshine Coast, I help families navigate nutrition with practical, personalised strategies. Book with paediatric dietitian Hannah Sholl today.