Feeding in children with autism is usually a common problem, due to several factors, such as hypersensitivity or sensory alterations.

As we know that in some families mealtime is a challenge, from VICON Method we bring you a series of TIPS to improve nutrition in children with autism.

Difficulties with feeding in children with autism

Many children with autism spectrum disorder have feeding problems due to several factors :

• Hypersensitivity
• Stiffness
• Inflexibilities
• Sensory alterations

TIP 1: Reinforcer at meals

We must have a reinforcer on hand (a toy, a video or a song) that we will use at certain times, but not during the entire meal. It is super important to keep in mind that the reinforcer we use has to be limited only to those moments of the meal so that it acquires more value .

TIP 2: From less to more

At meal time we can start by offering them something that they like and gradually introduce those foods that they like least.

TIP 3: Motivating routine

Create a routine that motivates them after mealtime. We can place pictograms in the food area that indicate what is going to be done at that moment and once it is finished.

TIP 4: Eating habits and autonomy

We have to reinforce their autonomy by letting them eat alone . Just as it is important that they acquire certain habits such as:

• Eat sitting
• Wash your hands before and after eating
• Clean your mouth
• Use cutlery correctly
• Pour water into your glass

Tell us in comments: Do you have any advice to give to other families to improve nutrition in children with autism?

We are looking forward to hearing from you, mom, dad... we are sure that you will be able to provide some more valuable information for this beautiful community. We read you!

Also remember that we have other posts related to food that may interest you, a few months ago we talked about Food and Language , the profile of the child in the dining room , what to do if the child refuses to eat solid food and digestive problems .