Original Publication Date: August 21, 2023
Introducing new foods to autistic children can be frustrating for parents and stressful for children. Sensory sensitivities, rigid thinking patterns, and anxiety often lead to food selectivity, where children limit their diet to only a few familiar items. Research shows that up to 70% of autistic children experience some level of food aversion (Cermak et al., 2010), which can lead to nutritional deficiencies and heightened family stress during mealtimes.
Food selectivity is not simply “picky eating”—it’s a complex issue rooted in how autistic children process sensory information. The texture of a broccoli floret, the smell of cooked fish, or the mixed flavors in a sauce can feel overwhelming. Additionally, routines and sameness offer comfort to autistic children, making the introduction of new foods feel disruptive.
However, with patience, structure, and the right strategies, parents can help their children become more open to trying new foods. The key is to create a supportive, low-pressure environment where the child feels safe to explore new tastes and textures.
Strategies to Encourage Trying New Foods
Here are evidence-based strategies that parents can use at home to support their child in developing a more varied diet:
1. Gradual Exposure and Desensitization
Start by introducing new foods visually and through touch before asking the child to taste them. Children are more likely to accept new foods after repeated, non-threatening exposure. For example, place a piece of broccoli on the plate without asking the child to eat it. Over time, let the child touch and smell it before tasting.
2. Pair Familiar with New
Pairing a new food with a familiar or preferred one helps ease anxiety. For example, mix finely chopped vegetables into a favorite pasta dish or serve a new dip alongside chicken nuggets. This method can help increase the acceptance of new foods in autistic children.
3. Modeling and Social Learning
Children are more likely to try new foods when they see others doing it. Sit down together as a family and model eating the new food. Keep the atmosphere positive—if the child sees others enjoying the food, they may become more curious about it (Bandini et al., 2010).
4. Modify Texture and Presentation
Many food aversions stem from texture rather than taste. If your child dislikes the texture of steamed carrots, try roasting them for a firmer feel or blending them into a soup. Chistol et al. (2018) highlighted that modifying food texture significantly improves acceptance among autistic children.
5. Positive Reinforcement
Encourage exploration with positive reinforcement rather than pressure. When the child interacts with the new food—whether they smell, touch, or taste it—offer praise or a small reward. Studies show that positive reinforcement increases the likelihood of children trying new foods over time.
6. Limit Pressure and Negative Reactions
Pressure to eat can backfire, increasing resistance. Instead of saying, “You have to try it,” offer choices: “Would you like to try a bite of broccoli or green beans?” Providing a sense of control reduces anxiety and increases cooperation.
Example: Introducing Broccoli
Suppose your child dislikes vegetables, especially broccoli. Here’s how you could apply the strategies:
- Gradual Exposure – Start by placing broccoli on the plate without asking them to eat it. Let them touch and smell it over several meals.
- Pair with a Preferred Food – Mix small pieces of broccoli with mac and cheese or a favorite dip.
- Modeling – Eat broccoli yourself and talk about how it tastes (“It’s crunchy and a little sweet”).
- Texture Modification – If the broccoli’s texture is off-putting, try roasting or blending it into a sauce.
- Positive Reinforcement – Praise them for exploring the broccoli, even if they don’t eat it.
- Low Pressure – Let them decide when they feel ready to try a bite.
This structured, low-stress approach helps build positive associations with new foods over time.
Next Steps
Helping a child with food selectivity is a process that requires consistency and patience. Beyond working with a therapist, parents can:
- Create a Positive Mealtime Environment – Keep meals calm and low-stress. Avoid distractions like TV and loud noises.
- Introduce Foods at Predictable Times – Serve new foods consistently so the child knows what to expect.
- Make Food Exploration Fun – Let your child help with grocery shopping, food prep, and plating. Hands-on involvement can increase curiosity and reduce resistance.
- Use Visual Supports – A “food exploration chart” where the child can mark progress (e.g., touching, smelling, tasting) can build confidence.
- Respect Boundaries – If the child rejects a food, stay neutral. Reintroduce it later without pressure.
How Therapy Can Help
As a licensed therapist with over 16 years of experience, I specialize in helping autistic children develop coping strategies and reduce anxiety around new experiences. My therapy approach includes:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – To address anxiety and rigidity.
- Social Skills Training – To improve comfort during shared meals.
- Sensory Integration Techniques – To reduce aversions to textures, smells, and tastes.
- Parent Coaching – To create a supportive home environment.
Schedule a Consultation
If your child struggles with trying new foods or has other autism-related challenges, I can help. I offer teletherapy for Texas residents. Schedule a Free 15-Minute Consultation to learn more about my therapy approach and how I can support your family.
References
Bandini, L. G., et al. (2010). Food selectivity in children with autism spectrum disorders and typically developing children. The Journal of Pediatrics, 157(2), 259–264. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpeds.2010.02.013
Cermak, S. A., et al. (2010). Sensory-based food selectivity and autism spectrum disorders. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 40(5), 562–571. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20102851/
Chistol, L. T., et al. (2018). Sensory sensitivity and food selectivity in children with autism spectrum disorder. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 48(5), 1398–1406. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29116421/
You can reach me at my website or call me directly at 832-559-3520 if you have any questions. Thank You!
- Can ChatGPT Provide Therapy? That’s Find Out! - April 14, 2025
- Top 5 Best Focus Apps for Android in 2025 - March 31, 2025
- How Career Concerns Influence Internet Addiction in Teens - March 26, 2025
