Studies have shown that children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often struggle with food refusal more than their typically developing peers. It’s not uncommon for them to have a significantly narrower range of foods they’re willing to eat. So, if your little one is a picky eater, know that you’re not alone in this.

 

The impact of these challenges goes beyond the dinner table. Poor eating habits can lead to various nutritional issues, impacting not just physical health but also attention and behavior. As parents, we face the daunting task of deciphering whether the feeding problem stems from medical issues or behavioral factors.

 

Here are some possible warning signs of feeding problems:

• Is your child sticking to only a handful of foods, resisting any attempts to introduce variety? For instance, consuming fewer than 20 different types of foods and avoiding specific food groups?
• Does your child react strongly or negatively when presented with new textures or flavors? For example, crying, screaming, yelling, throwing plates or food, and possibly running away from the table, or even vomiting or gagging?
• Are your child’s feeding abilities not aligning with their age, causing frustration during mealtimes? For example, they might struggle to use utensils independently at an age-appropriate level or show reluctance or refusal to transition from baby food to solid foods.
• Does your child show a strong preference for only one specific food, leading to imbalanced nutrition? For instance, do they insist on eating the same food from the same brand, or does the food have to be prepared in the same way each time?

So, what can you do if you suspect your child is facing these challenges?

The first step is to openly communicate your concerns with your Pediatrician and therapists involved in your child’s care. Your Pediatrician plays a pivotal role in facilitating further evaluations that are necessary to understand your child’s specific needs. They might recommend assessments from a team of skilled professionals, including medical experts such as pediatricians, dieticians, and gastroenterologists. Additionally, specialists like oral-motor therapists (speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists) and child psychologists who specialize in pediatric feeding disorders can provide valuable insights and support.

 

If you’re seeking additional help, guidance, or just a friendly conversation, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Nurture Pods.

 

At Nurture Pods, we understand the unique challenges faced by children with special needs. Our dedicated intervention center is designed to cater to the individual needs of every child we work with. With a focus on evidence-based best practices, we craft personalized intervention programs that nurture and empower these incredible young minds.

 

Written by: Alex Liau
Published on 5 January 2024