Are you struggling to feed your picky eater? You're definitely not alone!
Many parents face the daily challenge of trying to ensure their child eats a balanced diet, only to be met with resistance and frustration. It can be incredibly hard to find foods your child will actually eat and even harder to stay patient when mealtime turns into a battleground. Worrying about their nutrition and health adds extra stress, making the whole situation feel overwhelming.
It's especially tough when your child has sensory processing issues, autism or ADHD. For them, it's not just about being fussy; there are deeper reasons behind their eating habits. Things like sensitivity to certain textures or smells, a strong need for routine, or simply not liking the look of certain foods can make mealtime a real challenge. Providing the right picky eater support, including for children with autism and ADHD, can help kids to get comfortable with trying new foods, and to develop an overall healthy relationship with food.
Picky Eater Support for Kids with Autism and ADHD
For kids with autism or ADHD, it's extra important to tune in to what foods they like and don't like. Some kids might be bothered by certain textures, smells, or colors, while others feel less anxious just sticking to what they know is familiar. By beginning with respect for your child's preferences and gently, yet strategically, introducing new foods, you can help your child become a more adventurous eater bit by bit.
When it comes to picky eating, it's so important to make mealtimes fun and relaxed. That means serving up different kinds of foods without making a big fuss, and giving your child plenty of time to try them out.
Also, when you have open communication with your child about food, it creates a safe place for them to share their thoughts and preferences. This helps you to better understand their challenges and work together to find solutions. For kids with autism or ADHD, communication barriers can make this extra challenging.
If you're in need of some extra picky eater support, consider reaching out to a feeding specialist or occupational therapist. They may be able to give you customized tips and tricks to meet your child's unique needs and to make mealtimes easier for both of you.
Feeding can be really tough for picky eaters, and it's important to realize that progress doesn't happen overnight. Don't forget to acknowledge and celebrate even the smallest victories, and keep in mind to be patient with both yourself and your child as you work through these challenges together.
Having the right practical strategies can help make things easier for both you and your child.
Get instant access to tips and tools with the feeding coach-designed picky eater book PDF!
Build a Better Eater is the picky eater book for parents of all kids including autism and ADHD.
This short eBook or paperback will help you to:
Understand the obstacles to feeding and how to work through them (including sensory issues)
Help your child develop a healthy relationship with food
Manage eating behaviors while avoiding power struggles
Take proven steps to transform your picky eater into a brave taster and better eater!
Are you ready to transform your picky eater with expert support?
Patty puts years of experience working with picky eaters into this quick tip book to help you get on the right track with your picky eater.
Build a Better Eater offers simple and effective strategies in a concise format, providing picky eater support for all kids. Keep this tool at your fingertips and refer back to it whenever needed to stay the course and transform your picky eater.
Start Building Your Better Eater Today!
From one of our readers:
"This was so helpful! I didn't realize all the reasons behind why my daughter was so picky. Now that I'm paying attention to them and using the strategies in the book,
I'm seeing some real progress and she is actually trying new foods!"
Sandy M. from PA
Picky Eater Support for ALL Kids
All blog content shared through HealthSmart! Kids is for informational purposes only and not to be construed as medical advice. Always talk with your qualified health care provider for managing your health care needs.
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