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Book a free 15 minute consultation
Phone Number
713-725-5982

Tackling Food Aversions: Parents of Children Diagnosed ASD

Hey there, super parents!

We know that mealtime can sometimes feel like a battlefield when your child has food aversions. But worry not! We're here to turn those food fights into food fun with some practical advice and a sprinkle of positivity. Let’s dive into the world of managing food aversions in children!

1. Seek Professional Guidance

First things first, let’s assemble our dream team:

  • Pediatrician: They can ensure there are no underlying medical issues causing the aversion.
  • Dietitian/Nutritionist: These food wizards can offer personalized nutrition advice.
  • Behavioral Therapist: Consider Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for tailored strategies.

2. Understand the Aversions

Observation is key!

  • Observe Patterns: Note which foods are a no-go and look for common traits like texture, color, or smell.
  • Sensory Issues: Check if sensory sensitivities are playing a role.

3. Implement Gradual Exposure

Slow and steady wins the race!

  • Introduce Slowly: Start with tiny, non-threatening portions.
  • Pair with Favorites: Serve new foods alongside beloved ones.
  • Desensitization Techniques: Gradually increase exposure without stress.

4. Foster a Positive Eating Environment

Create a no-pressure zone!

  • Minimize Pressure: Let’s ditch the “clean plate” club and focus on trying new things.
  • Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate every small victory!
  • Routine: Keep mealtimes consistent for a sense of stability.

5. Include Preferred Textures and Flavors

A little modification goes a long way!

  • Blend and Modify: Adjust textures to suit your child’s preferences.
  • Flavor Pairing: Use familiar flavors to make new foods more appealing.

7. Utilize Social Modeling

Little chefs in the making!

  • Cooking Together: Involve your child in meal prep to spark interest.
  • Food Exploration: Let them touch, smell, and explore foods to reduce anxiety.

7. Utilize Social Modeling

Monkey see, monkey eat!

  • Family Meals: Eating together shows positive eating habits.
  • Peer Influence: Arrange meals with friends who enjoy diverse foods.

8. Utilize Visual Supports

A picture is worth a thousand bites!

  • Visual Schedules: Use pictures or charts to outline the meal plan.
  • Storybooks and Videos: Introduce new foods through social stories or videos.

9. Maintain a Food Diary

Track those tasty triumphs!

  • Track Progress: Keep a diary of successful and unsuccessful attempts to tweak your approach.

10. Practice Patience and Persistence

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither are eating habits!

  • Stay Positive: Keep calm and carry on, mealtime warriors.
  • Consistency: Stick with it and give your strategies time to work.

Every child is unique, and it may take some time to discover what works best. Professional guidance can provide personalized strategies and support tailored to your child’s needs. Remember, patience and positivity are your best allies on this delicious journey. Bon appétit!