April is Autism Awareness month. All kids go through phases when their eating habits are not great, but for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, feeding challenges can seem impossible. Many autistic kids are so limited on intake that it can lead to deficiencies. Many struggle with textures, colors, smells and tastes — all so restrictive that levels of iron, calcium, vitamin D and B12 start to be affected.
Although there is no foolproof plan to help these issues, here are some common suggestions to manage mealtime behaviors:
Focus on limiting stress at mealtime. Encourage safe exposure to new foods rather than forcing consumption.
Maintain routine by ensuring consistency in time and place of meals.
Involve children in food selection, like picking out foods at the store, market or garden.
Offer gradual change. New textures and selections should be mixed in gradually with safe foods, and expectations kept low.
The Howell County Health Department, 180 S. Kentucky Ave. in West Plains is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, with a lunchtime closure from noon to 1 p.m. daily. Call 417-256-7078 or visit www.howellcountyhealth.com for more information.
