What is the most appropriate intervention for a parent to help a child recover from an eating disorder at home?

Providing small meals and snacks is the most appropriate intervention for a parent to help a child recover from an eating disorder at home. This approach can facilitate a more manageable way for the child to consume adequate nutrition without feeling overwhelmed by large portions, which can be particularly important for someone struggling with disordered eating behaviors.

Smaller, frequent meals can help stabilize blood sugar levels, reduce anxiety around meal times, and make it easier for the child to gradually improve their relationship with food. It also creates a supportive environment where the parent can monitor the child's intake and provide reassurance.

The other options might not be as beneficial in this context. For instance, encouraging larger meals could exacerbate anxiety or feelings of loss of control in a child dealing with an eating disorder. Allowing the child to eat only when feeling hungry may not ensure they are getting enough nutrition, as those experiencing eating disorders often have disrupted hunger cues. Additionally, restricting access to certain types of food might lead to increased fixation on those foods and could reinforce unhealthy attitudes towards eating.