If your child has autism, mealtimes can become a significant challenge due to sensory intolerances that limit their food variety. Often, children become picky eaters and may have meltdowns when introduced to new or healthier food options. To help create a more tolerable and enjoyable diet for your child, here are my top tips and advice for parents of picky eaters with autism:

1. Explore Food Through Sensory Play

Before having your child taste or attempt to chew a new food item, encourage them to explore the food by touching it, smelling it, playing with it, or even watching you eat it to model the behavior. Making food fun through sensory play can ease the anxiety associated with new foods. For example, you can have your child paint with veggies using condiments onto a tray or piece of paper. This playful approach can make new foods less intimidating and more engaging.

2. Introduce One New Food Item Per Week

Improving your child’s food selection will take time, so aim to stay consistent and remember to take it slow. Introducing one new food item per week allows your child to gradually become accustomed to different tastes and textures without feeling overwhelmed.

3. Pair Preferred Foods with New Foods

Pair your child’s favorite food with one other non-favorite food option. For example, if your child loves chicken nuggets but hates eating vegetables, introduce the chicken nugget first along with a small side of carrots, broccoli, or peas. Even if your child shows no interest in eating the vegetables, consistently introducing them during mealtime helps form a routine and encourages interaction with the new food. Encourage your child each time to taste, smell, touch, or play with the vegetable.

4. Involve Your Child in Cooking

Get your child involved in the cooking or baking process. This may include shopping for the ingredients and getting your child excited about making something together. Start with simple and fun recipes like cookies, yogurt parfaits, or sandwiches. Involving your child in food preparation can make different foods more interesting and appealing.

5. Reward with Praise

Reward your child with praise whenever they taste a new food, even if they don’t chew and swallow it. Acknowledging their effort reinforces positive behavior and encourages them to try again. Positive feedback is essential in building their confidence and willingness to explore new foods.

6. Use Pretend Play

Model the introduction of new foods using pretend play with toys, dolls, or their favorite stuffed animal. Pretend play can reduce anxiety and make the idea of trying new foods seem more familiar and less daunting.

By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can help create a more enjoyable and varied diet for your child. Remember, patience and consistency are key. Celebrate small victories and keep encouraging your child to explore new foods in a stress-free and fun environment.