How does autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergencies impact the way children eat?

Many neurodivergent children face challenges around eating. Some of these difficulties stem from underlying health issues, such as gluten or dairy intolerance, while others are linked to sensory sensitivities around food textures, smells, or tastes. These issues can make mealtime a stressful experience for both children and their families. Consulting a GP or dietician is a great first step to better understanding and addressing these challenges.

The National Autistic Society highlights that eating problems are common among autistic people. According to their guidance:

“Issues such as only eating very few foods, not being able to eat at school, going long periods of time without eating and pica (eating non-foods) can feel difficult to understand and manage.”

Quick Tips for Supporting Neurodivergent Children with Eating Challenges

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1. Be kind to yourself
This might be the most important tip! It’s easy to feel defeated when your child refuses to eat or has a limited diet. As a parent of a child with a pediatric feeding disorder, I’ve been there—I used to think, What kind of mother can’t get her child to eat? But the more I learned about feeding challenges, the more I realized it’s not my fault. Being kind to yourself allows you to approach the situation with patience and compassion.

2. Consult a professional before making dietary changes
Don’t put your child on a restrictive diet without guidance from a GP or dietician. Professional input will help identify if your child’s eating challenges are related to medical issues, sensory sensitivities, or other factors.

3. Seek support
Input from healthcare professionals, like a GP, dietician, or occupational therapist, can guide you in making effective changes to your child’s eating habits.

4. Try a social story
Social stories are widely recommended because they can help children understand and manage new or challenging situations, including trying new foods. Here’s an example:

"Sometimes we try new foods. I might not like them right away, and that’s OK. But trying a new food can be fun and help me grow big and strong."

5. Use rewards
If bribing or rewarding your child encourages them to try a new food, go for it! A small step like tasting a new food is a big win and deserves celebration.

6. Use positive language
Phrases like “Food is fuel” or “Food makes us feel good and strong” can encourage a more positive association with eating.

7. Keep a food diary
Tracking your child’s eating habits over a week or two can help identify patterns and provide valuable insights when consulting professionals.

Here’s an example of what to record in a food diary:

• Time of day: 7:30 AM
• Food eaten: Plain rice crackers [ETA brand]
• Location: Dining table
• Quantity: Three crackers
• Who was present: Mum, Nana
• Response from others: Mum said, “Well done.” Nana didn’t notice.
• Environmental factors: iPad was on.

8. Be wary of fads
Avoid popular but unscientific diets that claim to address feeding issues. Instead, seek advice grounded in evidence-based research.

9. Think with your senses
Many neurodivergent children are highly sensitive to sensory input. Consider the sensory environment during meals:

• Sounds: Is the room too noisy?
• Smells: Are there strong odors present?
• Textures: Are there foods your child dislikes due to how they feel?
  Making small adjustments to the sensory environment can make a big difference.

For further information and resources on feeding challenges, check out other panui (newsletters) from Awhi Nga Matau and the IHC Library. You can also contact the IHC Library by calling 0800 442 442 or emailing librarian@ihc.org.nz.