Here are some excerpts from my latest article in Autism Eye about picky eating.
1. Make sure the issue is not medical If a child consistently refuses foods or has issues chewing or swallowing they must be assessed medically. Some of our parents have needed to advocate strongly for this - do not let the doctor tell you it's 'normal' or to wait and see if you feel something is off. Constipation, reflux, dental issues and even problems with the oesophagus can all cause issues with eating.
2. Consider food intolerances Sometimes a child reacts to foods which can make them feel uncomfortable. Even 'healthy' foods can cause reactions if a child is sensitive to certain things like phenols. Work with a health professional to rule out any acute allergies or food intolerances.
3. Stay calm and patient Easier said than done we know! At Brainstorm Health® we are all mothers who have had our share of mealtime stress. Children can pick up on the stress and some even see it as a 'battle' as it's an opportunity to assert independence. Making food neutral is key to creating a safe space for you and your children to expand the number of foods they will eat. It can be a very lengthy process but remember you are laying foundations that will last their lifetime so don't give up if you don't see results as quickly as you like. Sometimes it can take months to introduce even one new food.
4. Help them feel in control Involve them in choosing, shopping and preparing food as much as is age-appropriate. In many cases, if the child feels in control they let go of a lot of the stress and fear around new foods. We know that doing this may make prep a bit longer, but it can also make the actual meal a lot easier.
5. Consider food texture If you notice your child hates mushy foods - it's ok to serve crunchy ones - e.g. raw carrots instead of cooked. Introducing the food in a texture your child will accept is often the first step.
6. Know when to seek help As mentioned before, a child's eating issues may be medical in nature and need to be assessed. Feeding therapists are also a resource you may want to use to see if this is a "picky eating" phase or a "problem feeder" issue which is a more serious and perhaps a medical issue. Getting the right support is important to keep you focused and grounded through this often very difficult process.
Resources vary depending on your area and are often limited but don't hesitate to reach out to your local parent groups, GP, school, or occupational therapists and ask around for help.
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