What are signs that my child’s eating habits may not be typical?

While eating patterns can vary widely in childhood, it may be helpful to seek support if you notice ongoing patterns such as a very limited range of accepted foods, strong reactions to textures, smells, or the appearance of food, persistent stress or conflict at mealtimes, or ongoing concerns about growth, energy levels, or nutrition. If these behaviours continue over time or begin to affect family life, a paediatric dietitian can help assess whether additional support is needed.

When should I worry about picky eating in children?

Picky eating is common and often part of normal development. However, it may be worth seeking guidance if picky eating leads to nutritional gaps or reliance on a very narrow diet, causes anxiety around food or mealtimes, affects growth or energy levels, or results in extreme avoidance of foods or entire food groups.

Can screen time affect my child’s appetite or eating habits?

Yes. Regular screen use during meals can distract children from noticing hunger and fullness cues and may reduce their engagement with food. Over time, this can make it harder for children to recognise appetite signals, explore new foods, and eat confidently in screen-free environments.

How do I know if my child may have ARFID?

Signs of ARFID can include strong fear or anxiety around eating, gagging or distress with certain foods, very limited food variety or avoidance of whole food groups, and low interest in eating or poor appetite. Unlike typical picky eating, ARFID can impact growth, energy, nutrition, and daily functioning. A health professional can help assess whether these patterns are present.

How can a paediatric dietitian help with my child’s eating challenges?

A paediatric dietitian looks at the full picture including your child’s eating patterns, growth, nutritional intake, sensory preferences, and mealtime environment. They provide practical, tailored strategies to support food acceptance and variety, reduce mealtime stress, ensure nutritional needs are met, and build positive, sustainable eating habits.

PB&J Chia Yoghurt Pots

An Easy, Balanced Breakfast or Snack (Make-Ahead Friendly)

Looking for a quick breakfast or snack that feels a little indulgent but still ticks the nutrition boxes?

These PB&J chia yoghurt pots are one of our go-to options at Complete Dietetics. They’re simple to prepare, easy to portion, and combine fibre, healthy fats, plant protein and omega-3s — all in one creamy, chocolate-topped cup.

They’re perfect for busy mornings, afternoon snacks, or when you want something sweet that still supports balanced eating.

Ingredients (Makes 4 pots)

4 × 160g Activia Australia single yoghurt pots (vanilla works well)

4 tablespoons chia seeds
4 tablespoons peanut butter
4 teaspoons sugar-free berry jam
50g sugar-free dark chocolate
2 teaspoons coconut oil
Sea salt flakes, to sprinkle

Method

Add 1 tablespoon of chia seeds to each yoghurt pot and stir well.
Top each pot with berry jam and peanut butter, then gently swirl with a spoon.
Place the dark chocolate and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 40-second bursts, stirring between each, until melted.
Spoon the melted chocolate evenly over the four pots.
Sprinkle with sea salt flakes.
Refrigerate until the chocolate sets.

That’s it, breakfast or snacks sorted for the next few days.

Storage

Keep covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. These are ideal for meal prep and can be made ahead for busy weeks.

Why we love this recipe

From a dietitian perspective, this recipe brings together several key nutrients:

Chia seeds - A great source of omega-3 fatty acids, fibre and plant-based protein. Chia also helps thicken the yoghurt, making these pots extra satisfying.

Peanut butter - Adds healthy fats and additional plant protein, helping keep you fuller for longer.

Berry jam - Provides flavour and a touch of sweetness. Using a sugar-free version keeps added sugars minimal.

Yoghurt - Supplies protein and calcium, supporting muscle and bone health.

Together, these ingredients create a balanced breakfast or snack that’s practical, nourishing and genuinely enjoyable.

FAQs - Complete Dietetics

At Complete Dietetics, our Accredited Practising Dietitians specialise in six core areas of nutrition. See our full list of services and find the area that best fits your needs.
You do not need a GP referral to book with us. During registration, we’ll ask for details of any doctors or specialists involved in your care so we can coordinate with your healthcare team (with your permission). For your first appointment, please bring or forward any relevant information, such as past medical history, test/scans results, current medications.
Yes. Our Accredited Practising Dietitians provide secure telehealth dietitian consultations via video across all Australian states and territories. Enjoy the same personalised, evidence-based care from the comfort of your home—no referral needed.
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Our home clinic is at 85 McKillop Street, Geelong VIC 3220. We’re open Monday to Friday, 8am–5pm (with after-hours appointments available by request)
Yes, we provide home visits for NDIS participants who will benefit most from our specialised care, including tube-fed clients and those with MS or neurological conditions. Currently, we offer home visits in the Geelong region and Inner South East Suburbs of Melbourne, within a 30-minute travel distance. Please check with reception to see if you/your participant fall within our home visit locations.

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