As a mother of an autistic fussy and restrictive eater, I know all too well the struggle of trying to get my son to eat new foods. With a limited palate and specific textures, he’s willing to eat, it’s not always easy to introduce new dishes. However, over time, I’ve come up with a few tricks and tips to help expand his food range. I have managed to do this in a fun and light-hearted way.
Let them get their hands dirty
One strategy I’ve found helpful is to involve Ethan in the cooking process. He’s much more likely to try something new if he’s had a hand in preparing it. I’ll often ask him to help me with simple tasks, like stirring or measuring ingredients. Not only does this give him a sense of accomplishment, but it also makes him feel like he’s part of the process. Of course, there is no guarantee, ever, that he will eat it. But it has worked a few times.
Read more: If a child is hungry enough they will eat anything. Hands up if you have a “Fussy Eater”
Make small changes to safe foods
Another technique I’ve found effective is to make small changes to his favourite dishes. For example, if he loves spaghetti with tomato sauce, I’ll gradually add in more vegetables, like diced carrots or zucchini. The key is to make changes slowly so that he doesn’t notice right away. It’s a sneaky way to get him to try new things without overwhelming him.
But let’s be honest – sometimes, you just have to get a little creative. One time, I made Ethan “nugget sushi” – chicken nuggets with rice and cut veges. He was sceptical at first, but once he tried it, he loved it. It was a fun way to introduce him to a new flavour and texture. It made mealtime a little more exciting. I am also a huge fan of food dye. Whatever colour is the flavour of the month. I am still getting over the blue mashed potatoes.
Read More: Hidden vegetable Donuts recipe
Change the way you serve food
I’ve also found that giving him smaller servings helps. It is minimising the demands around mealtime. Small sizes are less threatening. It is also less wasteful when trying new foods. When serving a new food, you might need to start with a portion. It can be as small as a grain of rice.
Something I have also learnt recently is serving desert with the main meal. This gives my fussy and restrictive eater more control and they feel more trusted. It can also be a positive affirmation, especially if you have gotten into the habit of using food as a reward. I am the first to admit I had definitely fallen into this trap.
Don’t feel ashamed
“The hardest thing to actually deal with is the judgement from other parents. I have also been called to his school on multiple occasions about including sweets or Potatoe chips in my child’s lunch box. But I would rather he ate that than not to eat at all. I have had to stand my ground and quote disability legislation just so my child can eat something at school.“
Sonia, Ethans mum
Then there are the side way glances when the other parents see me driving through KFC for the third day in a row. But I have learnt to ignore this. I have also earnt to not lose sleep if he only eats KFC for a whole entire month. At least he is eating. Sometimes you have to give yourself a break and just keep trying.
Let’s be honest, it’s not easy
It’s not been easy, but I know I am doing the best for my child. He has a disability, and I need to take these measures to ensure he stay healthy, and that food does not become the enemy. Together we can learn to make food fun and exciting.
At the end of the day, the most important thing is that my child is getting the nutrients they need to grow and be healthy. Because the long-term goal is making food enjoyable and accessible.
Cooking for a fussy autistic child can be a challenge. But it can also be an opportunity to get creative and have some fun. With a little bit of patience and a lot of humour, you can help expand your child’s food range in a way that’s enjoyable for both of you. And who knows, you might just discover a new favourite dish along the way.
So, to all the parents out there who are cooking for their fussy and restrictive eater – keep at it and give yourself a break!