As parents of children with autism know, mealtimes are not always easy. Balancing nutritious meals with a child’s sensory preferences requires patience, understanding, and informed strategies. However, this ‘picky eating’ is beyond mere preference. When it comes to food, many children with autism face significant food aversions. But what are food aversions and how can we as parents address them? This blog is dedicated to sharing knowledge and tactics that help navigate these challenges, promoting a mealtime environment of understanding, cooperation, and nutritional health.
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Understanding Food Aversions and Food Rigidity
Food aversion is a condition where an individual develops a strong dislike or distaste for a specific food or group of foods. But how is this different from a picky eater not wanting to, for example, eat their broccoli? The larger issue may have to do with the child facing food rigidity.
In a study conducted at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, food rigidity is defined as “behaviors surrounding the context of feeding that create rigid routines, insistence on sameness, general inflexibility, and rigid mealtime expectations determined by the child’s needs.” Food rigidity can manifest as a strong resistance to trying new foods or a strict preference for certain textures, tastes, or appearances. For example, one parent included in the study mentioned his child will “drink soda if it’s from a particular fast food chain in their particular glass.”
Food rigidity can stem from various triggers, including sensory sensitivities, where certain textures or smells intensify, creating discomfort, or changes in presentation that cause confusion or anxiety. Recognizing the underpinnings of food aversions is pivotal in addressing them effectively.
Strategies for Addressing Food Aversions
With food aversions, there are several strategies you can utilize to help expand your child’s dietary variety. A solid starting point often involves:
- Visual Schedules and Social Stories: These tools visually represent the steps of mealtime, helping children understand and prepare for the process of trying new foods. Create illustrated guides that outline each part of mealtime or narrative stories that positively explain the dining experience.
- Providing Clear Expectations: Consistently conveying what is going to happen can help children feel more secure during mealtimes. This strategy can include discussing the menu beforehand and involving the child in meal preparation to foster familiarity and comfort with the food.
- Establishing Predictable Routines: Where change is involved, providing as much routine as possible can be comforting. Offer a structured and familiar context for meals that can alleviate stress and resistance.
- Gradual Introduction: Introducing new foods in small, manageable steps, paired with preferred foods can gradually broaden the child’s diet without overwhelming them. According to Autism Spectrum News, “The rule of thumb is to offer 3 foods at a time and at least 1-2 of these foods should be items your child already likes.”
With the right strategies and support, you can help your child overcome their food aversions.
Professional Support: Recognizing When to Seek Help
While many strategies can be implemented at home, it’s crucial to know when to seek professional support. Occupational Therapists (OT), Speech and Language Pathologists (SLP), and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) professionals specialize in addressing the complexities of autism spectrum disorder. They can provide personalized strategies and interventions based on a comprehensive understanding of each child’s unique needs and behaviors. Seeking professional help is a proactive step in creating a positive mealtime experience.
Horizon Behavioral Autism Center: Helping with Mealtime Success and More
At Horizon Behavioral Autism Center, we understand that mealtime challenges are more than just about food; they’re about family, happiness, and health. Our approach integrates structured processes to introduce new textures, foods, and brands gently and effectively, aiming to reduce food rigidity. We offer support and guidance, utilizing evidence-based practices tailored to each child’s specific needs, to create a successful and positive eating experience for your child.
By embracing a well-informed, practical, and supportive method, we aim to transform mealtime into a time of exploration and enjoyment. Reach out to us, and let’s embark on this journey together, crafting stories of success and nourishment, one meal at a time.