Picky Eating and Autism: Gentle, Proven Strategies from "Helping Your Child with Extreme Picky Eating"
Why Picky Eating Is So Common in Autistic Children
Understanding Sensory Sensitivities and Food Avoidance
Many autistic children experience heightened sensory responses, making certain food textures, smells, or temperatures overwhelming. What looks like defiance is often a sensory survival strategy.
Anxiety, Routine, and Control at Mealtimes
Picky eating can also stem from a need for predictability. Mealtime battles often increase anxiety and decrease trust, making things worse over time.
What This Book Teaches Parents About Feeding Therapy
The Division of Responsibility: Who Does What at Mealtimes
The book uses Ellyn Satter's model: parents decide what, when, and where food is offered; children decide if and how much to eat. This promotes autonomy.
Progress Is More Than Just Eating the Food
Your child looking, touching, smelling, or allowing new food near them is progress. This exposure-based method helps reduce stress.
Building a Safe Mealtime Environment
Avoid pressure or bribes. Instead, create predictable routines with consistent mealtimes, positive interactions, and repeated exposure.
At-Home Strategies for Parents of Picky Eaters with Autism
Food Chaining and Sensory Play with Food
Link new foods to preferred ones based on texture, flavor, or shape. Let your child explore food through play without the expectation to eat.
Reducing Pressure and Supporting Exposure
Never force a bite. Instead, celebrate small wins like sniffing or licking. Slow exposure builds tolerance and trust.
Creating Calm, Predictable Mealtime Routines
Minimize background noise, offer 2-3 simple foods, and serve meals at the same time daily to reduce overwhelm.
When to Seek Feeding Therapy Support
If your child eats fewer than 15 foods, drops previously accepted ones, or experiences weight/nutritional concerns, consult a feeding therapist.