It is common for autistic children to have limited foods they will eat. Sensory issues involving texture and smell can especially affect what they like. For example, how smooth is the food vs. chunky, how it feels on the tongue and going down, size and shape. Children have strong preferences and thrive on routine which can also influence eating.

A limited diet can result in not meeting daily nutritional needs, so consult with your pediatrician, a gastroenterologist, or related therapists before making significant dietary changes. Depending on symptoms and issues, there are gastroenterological conditions that may be helpful to rule out. See this related section on GI Issues.

Food Selection and Nutrition Ideas

When thinking about foods your autistic child will eat, watch for potential texture and other sensory aspects of what they may like or dislike.

Ask what your child wants for meals when possible, but give limited choices so it is not overwhelming yet builds the ability to share what they want to eat. This can give your child some feeling of control while giving you the opportunity to provide choices that help provide good nutrition. Gradually increase their involvement and decision making.

Try to slowly build a little more selection in their food choices. Be patient and understand underlying potential issues. Is there a texture that is hard for your child to tolerate?

If your goal is to try to introduce a fruit or vegetable, think about what they like so far and if there is something similar that you could try. Try a few different times, understanding that you may need to let it go for a while and come back to it.

Involve your child in planning for school lunches whether they bring or buy. Many schools post their school lunch menus so you and your child can see ahead which choices they do or do not like. Have them learn how to make their own breakfast or lunch. Plan snacks together for after school as well.

Nutrition and Health Issues

If your child’s diet is too restrictive because of these issues, discuss it with your pediatrician, a gastroenterologist or therapist to help both with strategies and in meanwhile ensuring nutrition for their health.

It is important to meet your child’s calorie and nutrition needs so that their growth and development are not impacted. Regular visits to the pediatrician are important to check that their growth is on track.

Finding What Works for Your Family

Based on your budget and your work, school and lifestyle realities, it may look different for you.

If you need help with access to nutritious food, your local food bank, The National Hunger Hotline or other nonprofits are a free resource. Public schools often provide reduced or free lunches or breakfasts. The Milestones free Autism Helpdesk can connect you with resources. United Way 211 serves as a central help and resource center. The national website to find your local 211 service is https://www.211.org. In Ohio it is https://www.211oh.org.

Different families have different schedules that may not mean set meal times. Work out what is realistic for your family. Think about how you can plan for what your child with autism can eat as a snack in between and at whenever the meal time is.

Food Preparation

Your child can start with simple tasks, like helping set the table, mashing potatoes or getting things out of the refrigerator for food prep. Then where things go in the dishwasher or how to wash dishes by hand (starting with things that are not breakable).

Involve your child in selecting and cooking a dish or meal. This can also encourage trying new foods. Do it together with your child so you can model it or if they’re doing it incorrectly so you can correct it. It is easier if they learn it correctly the first time or early on.

Check out the Safety at Home article in the Milestones Autism Planning (MAP) Tool for tips on ensuring safety in the kitchen for children.