How to Communicate About Feeding with Non-Verbal Autistic Kids

Feeding a non-verbal autistic child can be challenging, especially when they cannot express their needs, wants, or discomfort. As a parent or caregiver, it's essential to develop strategies to communicate effectively about feeding. In this post, we'll explore some practical tips and ideas to help you navigate mealtime with your non-verbal autistic child.

1.  Use Visual Aids

Visual aids like pictures, symbols, or gestures can help your child understand what's happening during mealtime. You can:

•  Create a visual schedule or routine for meals

•  Use pictures of food to show what's being served

•  Make a "first-then" chart to indicate the order of food

2.  Implement a Communication System

Develop a communication system that works for your child, such as:

•  Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices

•  Picture Communication Symbols (PCS)

•  Sign language

3.  Offer Choices

Provide your child with choices to give them a sense of control and autonomy:

•  Offer two or three food options

•  Allow them to choose the drinking cup or utensils

•  Let them pick the seating arrangement

4.  Pay Attention to Non-Verbal Cues

Pay attention to your child's non-verbal cues, such as:

•  Facial expressions (e.g., liking or disliking a food)

•  Body language (e.g., leaning away or towards a food)

•  Vocalizations (e.g., making sounds to indicate hunger or fullness)

5.  Be Patient and Flexible

Mealtime can be unpredictable, so it's essential to be patient and flexible:

•  Don't force feeding if your child is resistant

•  Be open to trying new foods and presentation styles

•  Adjust your approach as needed based on your child's cues and responses

6.  Involve Your Child in Meal Preparation

Involve your child in meal preparation to make mealtime more engaging and interactive:

•  Let them help with simple tasks, like washing fruits or veggies

•  Encourage them to explore different textures and smells

•  Make meal prep a sensory experience

7.  Seek Professional Guidance

Consult with a healthcare professional, occupational therapist, or registered dietitian for personalized guidance on feeding your non-verbal autistic child:

•  Get advice on managing feeding challenges

•  Learn strategies for improving mealtime behavior

•  Discuss nutrition and dietary needs

Conclusion

Communicating about feeding with non-verbal autistic kids requires patience, creativity, and flexibility. By using visual aids, implementing a communication system, offering choices, and paying attention to non-verbal cues, you can make mealtime more enjoyable and interactive. Remember to be patient, flexible, and seek professional guidance when needed.

Resources

1.  Autism Speaks: (link unavailable)

2.  The Autism Mom: (link unavailable)

3.  Feeding Matters: (link unavailable)

Share Your Experience

How do you communicate with your non-verbal autistic child about feeding? Share your strategies, challenges, and successes with us in the comments below.