It is common for autistic young children to have limited foods they will eat. Sensory issues involving texture and smell can affect what children like. For example, how smooth the food is versus 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 major dietary changes. Depending on symptoms and issues, there are gastroenterological (GI) conditions that may be helpful to rule out. See the Co-existing Conditions web page for more information about GI Issues. Occupational therapists can be helpful for sensory issues involving food as well.

Be aware of foods that can be choking hazards in young children which your pediatrician can give you advice about.

Food Selection and Nutrition Ideas

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

Ask your child what they want for meals when possible, but give limited choices so it is not overwhelming. It will help them learn 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 offer good nutrition.

Try to gradually, 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. You may need to let it go for a while and come back to it.

Nutrition and Health Issues

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

It is especially important in young children to meet their 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 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. 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.

Involve your child in choosing and cooking a dish or meal. This can also encourage trying new foods.

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