Overcoming Feeding Problems in a Child with Autism

A first step to introducing a new food might be simply placing the food on your child's plate. If even that leads to problems, you can start by placing the food on the child's plate for only a few seconds.

As soon as your child is successful with that first baby step, reward him! Rewards vary from child to child, but should include warm praise, a hug if that's something she likes, and a "motivator" such as a small amount of a preferred food or time doing a preferred activity.

• Know That Picky Eaters with Autism are Common - And the Reasons are Unknown
• Be Aware When a Child Starts to Reject a Food, and Nip the Problem in the Bud
• Choose a Food That's Similar to Those Your Child Likes Best
• Take Baby Steps When Introducing a Food
• Take More Baby Steps
• Avoid Creating a Power Struggle Between You and Your Child with Autism