By Jessica Jordan, MS, OTR/L

Feeding, eating and mealtimes can be such a demanding time for so many parents especially with a baby, toddler, or child, but even more stressful for a neurodivergent child. I think it is important to point out that autistic individuals are 5x more likely to have eating difficulties which can make mealtimes, feeding, and eating so taxing for a parent or caregiver.

Looking down on gray toddle tri divided plate with largest section having stew meal inside. The top left section has an empty spoon.

My tool box is not geared towards feeding, but what I can say is that I believe it is so important to create a positive association between food and eating especially for physical, mental, and emotional health.

Here are a few of my favorite general feeding strategies that I give to any of the families I work with and trying to even remember with my own family!

Make meal times together. Sharing a meal together is an opportunity for a family bonding experience. An opportunity to strengthen relationships and communicate as a family, as well as build a positive and healthy routine surrounding food. Kids learn from exposure, observation, and modeling from you!

Looking directly in front of family (one adult male, one adult female, and a child) at a table. The child is feeding the adult female by bringing food to her mouth and smiling. Bowls and plate of food on the table they are around.

2. Make a habit of discussing food properties, varieties, preparation, and preferences. After typing that the first example that came into my mind was an apple. An apple can be served in its whole form, sliced, shaved and baked into chips or even cooked into a puree (plus more). Altering foods can be so fun and playful not just for kids, but even adults! It is important to remember that a child’s primary occupation in play, therefore food can even be intrinsically motivating when it is served in a play based way! My daughter loved when I used a cookie cutter and made her homemade unicorn pancakes!

Looking down image on toddler in a booster seat at the table taking a big bite and eating a frosted pink donut with sprinkles and a fake toy eyeball in the center

3. Lastly, one of my favorite strategies is called the “Learning Plate”. This is a plate of food where we can expose our children to new items without any pressure! It is non judgmental, neutral territory, with no direct spotlight on the child, but a learning experience for all family members at the table. It is an opportunity where new foods can be offered and a child can pick and choose what new foods to try independently!

Let me know if you get to try any of the strategies above and if it has helped to create a more positive association with feeding, eating, and mealtimes for your child.

Also, feel free to reach out - we have trusted colleagues and local small business owners who we can refer to who specialize in feeding!

Mealtime