Picky Eating - Tips to Introducing New Foods
Children with autism are especially sensitive to food textures, smells and even how the food is presented. It can be challenging as a parent to expand your child’s selection of foods because of these sensitivities. This can be concerning as you may wonder if your child is getting all their essential vitamins and nutrients. Over the years. we have worked with dietitians, occupational therapists, ABA therapists and participated in various feeding therapies to get the boys to where they are today. As a result, I’ve learned some tips and tricks along the way that have helped us tremendously and I wanted to share them with you.
Always introduce new food in small portions with preferred food choices.
Don’t introduce the new food in the same plate. This can cause an aversion for your child if the new food touches their preferred food. I always introduce new foods in a separate bowl, that way if they are absolutely not interested in it, I can take it away without making it a big deal and without disrupting meal time.
Let your child smell, touch and “play” with the new food. I always watch the boys from the corner of my eye and observe how they interact with new food. Just recently we had some success with blueberries and I watched Leo roll it around his face and his mouth for weeks on end and then finally, when he put it in his mouth I wanted to jump for joy!
Never force your child to try (or even touch) a new food. Let them decide when they’re ready and be gentle with your approach.
As frustrating as it is, try not to get angry if your child continually refuses to try the new food you’re presenting.
Model by eating the foods you’re presenting to your child by making it seem like “it’s not a big deal”.
Don’t give up - Your child will need to be exposed to a food at least a dozen times before they even try it - Even higher if your child is diagnosed with autism.
Don’t make it a big deal if your child tries the new food and don’t bargain with your child (ex. If you try this, I’ll give you this.. etc.).
Avoid snacks, meals and drinks when your child is not at the table (in our case, their high chair) and stick to a routine when it comes to snacks/meals. Your child is more likely to try a new food if they are hungry and haven’t been grazing all day and are seated in a location in the home that is associated with eating/meal time.
Hope these tips help!
I frequently share updates on my Instagram page @natalieabkariancimini and you’re welcome to send me a DM if you have any specific questions.
Lots of love,
Natalie Abkarian Cimini
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Shredded carrots being introduced in a separate bowl.
