Little Feet Pediatric Therapy, a provider of Washington DC rehabilitation therapy for kids, is excited to announce the release of a new report focused on the causes of food selectivity in autistic children and how pediatric occupational therapy can help address this common challenge.

As many parents know, food selectivity can create significant stress during mealtimes and lead to potential long-term health risks for children on the autism spectrum. The new report aims to shed light on why food selectivity occurs and how professional therapy can assist in expanding the variety of foods that children will tolerate and enjoy.

Food selectivity is a term used to describe when children, particularly those on the autism spectrum, limit their food choices to a small number of items. This behavior can be seen in many autistic children and can be more persistent compared to typical childhood picky eating. According to Little Feet Pediatric Therapy, many autistic children experience food selectivity due to sensory processing differences, digestive issues, or the need for predictability in their routines.

“There are many reasons why autistic kids are more likely to be picky eaters,” says the report. “Your child’s occupational therapist can support you and your child by creating a plan for introducing a larger variety of food in their diet.”

Understanding the Causes of Food Selectivity in Autistic Children

In the new report, Little Feet Pediatric Therapy explores several factors that contribute to food selectivity in autistic children, offering a more comprehensive understanding of why certain children avoid a variety of foods. It’s designed to provide parents and caregivers with insights into the underlying reasons for food selectivity and how pediatric occupational therapy can be a powerful tool to help children overcome these barriers.

In particular, autistic children are often more prone to digestive disorders. Studies have shown that gastrointestinal issues are common in children with autism, making it harder for them to feel comfortable trying new foods. Digestive discomfort may lead them to stick with familiar foods that they associate with no discomfort.

As well, autistic children often find comfort in routines and predictability. This need can extend to food as well, where children may prefer certain foods because they offer a consistent texture, flavor, and appearance, unlike fruits and vegetables which can vary from one bite to the next.

However, there may be another culprit at play: sensory processing disorder. Many autistic children have sensory processing disorder, meaning they experience the world in a different way. For some children, the texture, smell, or taste of food can feel overwhelming. Those with sensory sensitivities may avoid foods with strong textures or smells, while others may gravitate toward foods with consistent or familiar sensory experiences, such as crunchy snacks or soft, smooth foods.

The Risks of Food Selectivity

The report also highlights the risks that food selectivity can pose to a child’s health. By limiting the variety of foods consumed, children may be at risk of nutritional deficiencies. For example, a restricted diet may lack essential vitamins and minerals, which can lead to developmental delays or other health issues. In addition, a preference for processed, starchy foods can contribute to long term health problems, including obesity, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.

How Pediatric Occupational Therapy Can Help

Fortunately, pediatric occupational therapy is an effective way to support children with food selectivity. Little Feet Pediatric Therapy’s team of experts works with families to help their children expand their diets in a gradual, supportive manner.

The process begins with an initial consultation, where the therapist meets with parents and caregivers to better understand the child’s eating habits, medical history, and mealtime behaviors. Based on this information, the occupational therapist creates a personalized treatment plan that starts with foods the child is already comfortable with and introduces new foods in small, manageable steps.

Those interested in the report are encouraged to visit the clinic’s website, or visit their Washington DC therapy clinic.

 

Media Contact
Company Name: Little Feet Pediatric Therapy
Contact Person: Shawn Leis, MPT
Email: Send Email
Phone: 1 (704) 931-8022
Address:1331 H St NW Ste 200
City: Washington
State: DC 20005
Country: United States
Website: https://littlefeettherapy.com/