Limited food preferences, also known as selective or restricted eating, are common in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Addressing these preferences and expanding a child’s diet can be challenging but is essential for providing balanced nutrition. Here are strategies to help with limited food preferences in autism children:
1. Seek Professional Guidance:
Consult with a registered dietitian or nutritionist who has experience working with children with autism. They can provide individualized guidance and meal plans to ensure your child’s nutritional needs are met.
2. Gradual Exposure:
Introduce new foods gradually and patiently. Start with small portions of new or less-preferred foods alongside familiar, preferred options.
3. Food Chaining:
This involves linking a new food to a preferred food with a similar taste, texture, or color. For example, if your child likes chicken nuggets, gradually introduce baked chicken strips.
4. Food Texture and Shape:
Shape: Pay attention to the texture and shape of food. Some children with autism are sensitive to specific textures. Try different cooking methods and textures to find what your child is more accepting of.
5. Visual Supports:
Use visual schedules, social stories, or picture-based communication systems to help your child understand mealtime routines and expectations.
6. Model Eating Behavior:
Children often learn by observing others. Eat meals together as a family and model healthy eating habits.
7. Positive Reinforcement:
Praise and reward your child for trying new foods or for making an effort to eat a greater variety of foods.
8. Family Involvement:
Involve your child in meal planning and preparation. This can make them more interested in trying new foods.
9. Sensory Exposure:
Engage your child in sensory play and exploration, including touching, smelling, and playing with different foods. Gradual exposure to new sensations can reduce food aversions.
10. De-Sensitization:
 Gradually increase exposure to foods your child is reluctant to eat. Start by having them touch or smell the food and progress to having it on their plate.
11. Mealtime Routine:
Establish a consistent mealtime routine with structured meal and snack times. Predictable routines can provide comfort and reduce anxiety.
12. Avoid Food Battles:
Avoid turning mealtimes into power struggles. Forcing a child to eat a food they dislike can create negative associations with mealtime. Instead, encourage, but do not pressure, your child to try new foods.
13. Food Exploration Play:
Create opportunities for your child to explore new foods through play. For example, they can build with food, make food art, or play cooking games.
14. Food Diaries:
Keep a food diary to track your child’s food preferences, allergies, and sensitivities. This can help identify patterns and areas for improvement.
15. Supportive Environment:
Create a comfortable and sensory-friendly eating environment. This may involve adjusting lighting, seating, and minimizing distractions.
16. Dips and Sauces:
Some children may be more willing to eat foods with familiar dips or sauces. Provide options like ketchup, ranch dressing, or hummus for dipping.
17. Individualized Meal Planning:
Tailor meals to your child preferences within the limits of their nutritional needs. For instance, if they prefer a particular protein source, find ways to incorporate it into various meals.
18. Patience and Persistence:
Persistence: Progress may be slow, and setbacks may occur. Be patient and continue offering new foods and expanding their diet.
Remember that it’s important to consult with healthcare professionals, such as a paediatrician, speech therapist, occupational therapist, or behaviour therapist, for comprehensive support and guidance. They can help address any sensory sensitivities or behavioural issues that may be
contributing to limited food preferences in autism children.