Blog
The 8 sensory reasons your child might not want to eat
The 8 sensory reasons your child might not want to eat
What if I told you that the reason your child is a picky eater might not be because they’re just being difficult or stubborn? It could actually be due to something called sensory processing. Sensory processing refers to how our brains take in and interpret information from our senses, like sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell.
For individuals with autism, sensory processing can be quite different compared to neurotypical individuals. They may respond differently to various sensory stimuli and have unique ways of experiencing the world around them. In this blog post, we’ll explore the fascinating world of sensory processing and discover why it can affect your child’s eating habits. So grab a cup of coffee (or tea!) and let’s dive in!
What is sensory processing?
What is sensory processing? It’s the brain’s ability to receive and interpret information from our senses. When we hear a sound, feel a texture, or taste something, our brains process that sensory input and help us make sense of the world around us.
For most people, sensory processing happens automatically and effortlessly. But for individuals with autism, it can be more challenging. Their brains may struggle to filter out irrelevant stimuli or may overreact to certain sensations.
Sensory processing involves multiple systems working together. There are eight different sensory systems: tactile (touch), auditory (sound), visual (sight), olfactory (smell), gustatory (taste), proprioceptive (body position and movement), vestibular (balance and spatial orientation) , and interoception (internal body signals).
Each system plays a unique role in how we perceive and interact with the world. For example, the tactile system helps us differentiate between textures while the vestibular system helps us maintain balance.
Understanding sensory processing is crucial because it impacts various aspects of daily life – including eating habits! By exploring this topic further, we can gain insights into why your child might have aversions to certain foods or exhibit picky eating behaviours related to their sensitivities or preferences in specific sensory domains.
Why do individuals with autism respond differently to sensory stimuli?
Individuals with autism often respond differently to sensory stimuli due to the way their brains process and interpret sensory information. This is known as sensory processing disorder (SPD). SPD affects how the brain receives, organizes, and responds to information from the senses.
One reason for these differences in response is that individuals with autism may have heightened sensitivity or “hypersensitivity” to certain sensory inputs. For example, they may be extremely sensitive to loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures. These hypersensitivities can cause discomfort and overwhelm them, leading to avoidance behaviours.
On the other hand, some individuals with autism may experience “hyposensitivity,” which means they have a decreased sensitivity to sensory input. They might seek out intense sensations like spinning or rocking because it helps them feel more grounded and regulated.
The unique neurological wiring of individuals with autism also plays a role in their atypical responses to sensory stimuli. The connections between different parts of their brain responsible for processing sensory information may be altered or less efficient.
Understanding these differences in sensory processing can help parents, caregivers, and educators provide appropriate support and accommodations for individuals with autism. By creating environments that are tailored to their specific needs and preferences, we can help them navigate the world more comfortably and confidently
Background
Understanding the background of sensory processing can help us better grasp why individuals with autism may respond differently to sensory stimuli. Sensory processing refers to how our brains receive and interpret information from our senses, such as touch, taste, smell, sight, sound, movement, body awareness, and the internal senses. This process enables us to make sense of the world around us.
For individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), sensory processing can become a challenge due to differences in how their brains process and integrate sensory information. These differences can lead to over-responsiveness or under-responsiveness to certain sensations.
Research suggests that these distinct responses are related to neurology – specifically how our brain processes and regulates emotions. Emotional experiences play a significant role in shaping our perceptions of sensation. When we feel safe and calm, our sensory system is more likely to function optimally. However, heightened stress levels can increase sensitivity or cause individuals with ASD to seek out intense sensations for regulation.
By understanding the background behind sensory processing challenges in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), we can begin exploring strategies that promote wellness and enhance daily functioning for individuals on the spectrum.
Sensory Strategies
Sensory strategies play a crucial role in helping individuals with sensory processing difficulties navigate their daily lives. These strategies are designed to help regulate and organize the sensory input they receive, allowing them to better process and respond to stimuli.
One commonly used strategy is the use of sensory breaks or pauses throughout the day. This gives individuals a chance to reset their nervous system when they become overwhelmed by sensory input. These breaks might involve engaging in calming activities such as deep breathing exercises, stretching, or spending time in a quiet space.
Another effective strategy is providing individuals with opportunities for movement and physical activity. Engaging in activities like jumping on a trampoline, swinging, or using therapy balls can help stimulate the proprioceptive system and provide much-needed sensory input.
Visual supports can also be helpful for individuals who struggle with processing visual information. Using visual schedules or cue cards can provide structure and predictability, reducing anxiety and making tasks more manageable.
Incorporating fidget tools into daily routines can also be beneficial. Fidget toys allow individuals to channel excess energy into something productive while helping them stay focused on tasks at hand.
It’s important to note that each individual may have unique sensory preferences and needs, so it’s essential to tailor these strategies accordingly. By implementing appropriate sensory strategies, we can support individuals with sensory processing difficulties in effectively navigating their environment and promoting overall well-being.
Information
Information is a key component when it comes to understanding sensory processing and its impact on individuals, especially children. The more we know about this topic, the better equipped we are to support those who may be struggling.
It’s important to understand that sensory processing refers to how our nervous system receives and interprets information from the environment around us. For some individuals with autism or other sensory processing disorders (SPD), this can be overwhelming or confusing.
Having access to accurate and up-to-date information about sensory processing can help parents, caregivers, and educators make informed decisions regarding strategies and interventions. This includes knowing which activities may be helpful in supporting a child’s specific sensory needs.
Additionally, staying informed allows for better communication between professionals working with children who have SPD. Sharing knowledge and resources ensures that everyone involved has a consistent understanding of the challenges these individuals face.
Having access to information encourages advocacy for individuals with SPD. When armed with knowledge about their unique experiences, we can advocate for appropriate accommodations in schools and public spaces so they can thrive.
Being well-informed about sensory processing is essential for providing effective support to children who struggle in this area. By seeking out reliable resources and sharing information among professionals and caregivers alike, we can create an environment where every child’s sensory needs are understood and accommodated.
When does sensory processing become a challenge?
When does sensory processing become a challenge? For individuals with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), everyday experiences can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate. While sensory processing is a natural part of our daily lives, it becomes a challenge when the brain struggles to interpret and respond appropriately to sensory information.
Children with SPD may experience difficulties in various areas, such as touch, sound, taste, smell, movement, balance, and visual input. These challenges can impact their ability to participate in activities at home or school. For example, they may avoid certain textures of food due to hypersensitivity or have difficulty focusing when there are background noises.
Sensory processing challenges can also affect social interactions. Children might struggle with personal space boundaries or become overwhelmed by crowded environments. This can lead to feelings of anxiety and stress.
In addition to these external factors that contribute to sensory challenges, internal factors such as emotions play a significant role too. When children are stressed or anxious about something unrelated to their senses, it can heighten their sensitivity and make everyday sensations more challenging for them.
Understanding the triggers that cause sensory challenges is crucial in developing effective strategies for managing them. By using sensory-friendly techniques like providing a calm environment or introducing gradual exposure therapy for sensitivities over time, parents and caregivers can help children overcome these challenges and thrive in their daily activities.
It’s important to remember that every child is unique in how they perceive and process sensory information. Being patient and supportive while seeking professional guidance from occupational therapists who specialize in SPD will ensure your child receives the necessary tools and interventions needed for success.
The effects of emotions
The effects of emotions play a significant role in how individuals with sensory processing issues respond to stimuli. Emotions can either enhance or hinder sensory experiences, making them more intense or overwhelming. For example, if a child is feeling anxious or stressed, their sensory system may become hyper-alert and sensitive to even minor stimuli.
On the other hand, positive emotions like happiness and excitement can have a calming effect on the sensory system. They can help regulate responses and make it easier for individuals to tolerate various sensations.
Emotions also influence our perception of sensory information. When we feel scared or threatened, our brain prioritizes survival responses over accurately interpreting incoming sensory signals. This can lead to misinterpretations of harmless stimuli as dangerous or unpleasant.
Additionally, emotions can impact appetite and eating behaviours. Stressful situations may cause some children to lose their appetite or develop aversions towards certain foods due to heightened sensitivities during these emotional states.
Understanding how emotions affect sensory processing is crucial in developing effective strategies for managing challenges related to sensory issues. By addressing emotional well-being alongside sensory needs, we can create a supportive environment that promotes overall wellness for individuals with sensory processing difficulties
The Neurology of How We Feel
Our experiences and emotions are not solely products of our thoughts or external events. They are also deeply rooted in the intricate workings of our nervous system. The neurology of how we feel is a fascinating field that explores the connections between our senses, emotions, and brain activity.
When we experience something pleasurable or distressing, it triggers a series of chemical reactions in our brains. These reactions involve neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which play crucial roles in regulating our mood and emotions. For example, when we eat something delicious or receive a warm hug, dopamine is released, creating feelings of pleasure and reward.
Additionally, the amygdala—a small structure deep within our brain—plays an important role in processing emotions. It helps us detect potential threats and activates the fight-or-flight response when necessary. This primal response is essential for survival but can also lead to heightened sensitivity to sensory stimuli.
Furthermore, different areas of the brain are responsible for processing specific sensory information. The visual cortex processes visual stimuli while the auditory cortex processes sounds. Any disruptions or dysregulation within these areas can affect how we perceive and respond to sensory input.
Understanding the neurology behind how we feel can provide valuable insights into why some individuals may have unique responses to sensory stimuli due to differences in their neural pathways or neurotransmitter levels. By recognizing these differences and implementing appropriate strategies, we can create an environment that supports individuals with sensory processing challenges.
In conclusion,
the neurology of how we feel is complex yet intriguing. Our senses connect with various parts of our brain to shape our emotional experiences. By exploring this connection further, researchers hope to gain a deeper understanding of conditions such as autism spectrum disorder where atypical sensory responses are common.
Sensory Health & Wellness
Sensory Health & Wellness is an essential aspect of overall well-being. When our sensory systems are functioning optimally, we are better equipped to navigate the world around us. Good sensory health allows us to process and respond appropriately to different stimuli.
Maintaining sensory health involves engaging in activities that stimulate and regulate our senses. This could include activities such as deep pressure touch, vestibular exercises, or engaging in calming visual and auditory experiences.
Promoting sensory wellness can have a positive impact on various areas of life. It can enhance attention and focus, improve sleep quality, reduce stress levels, and support emotional regulation.
Engaging in regular exercise is also beneficial for promoting sensory health. Physical activity not only strengthens the body but also helps regulate the nervous system by releasing endorphins – natural mood enhancers.
Incorporating mindfulness practices into daily routines can also contribute to optimal sensory health. Mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing or grounding exercises help calm the nervous system and promote relaxation.
Prioritizing self-care is crucial for maintaining good sensory health. Taking breaks when needed, practicing good sleep hygiene, eating nutritious meals, staying hydrated, and engaging in hobbies that bring joy are all important aspects of caring for one’s sensory well-being.
By prioritizing sensory health & wellness strategies tailored to individual needs, individuals can optimize their ability to process information effectively while promoting overall physical and emotional well-being
The Eight Sensory System
Sensory processing involves much more than just our five traditional senses of sight, hearing, taste, touch, and smell. In fact, there are eight sensory systems that play a role in how we process and respond to the world around us.
1. Visual System: This system relates to how we interpret and understand what we see. It includes aspects like visual acuity, color perception, depth perception, and visual tracking.
2. Auditory System: The auditory system is responsible for processing sounds and understanding speech. It also helps with locating the source of sound and filtering out background noise.
3. Tactile System: Our sense of touch allows us to gather information about our environment through receptors in our skin. It helps us perceive textures, temperatures, pressure, pain levels, and even social touch.
4. Gustatory System: This system refers to our sense of taste or how we perceive different flavors when eating or drinking.
5. Olfactory System: Our sense of smell plays a crucial role in detecting odors from both the external environment as well as internal cues within our bodies.
6. Proprioceptive System: The proprioceptive system provides information about body position and movement by sensing joint angles and muscle contractions.
7. Vestibular System: This system contributes to our sense of balance and spatial orientation by detecting changes in head position or movement through fluid-filled canals in the inner ear.
8. Interoceptive System:The interoceptive system enables us to perceive internal sensations such as hunger/fullness,pain,digestive discomfort,and emotions which arise from within the body.
Understanding these eight sensory systems is essential for identifying challenges individuals may face with sensory processing issues (SPD). By recognizing how each system functions independently but also works together with others,the complexities underlying SPD become clearer.
This knowledge empowers parents,caregivers,and professionals alike,to develop effective strategies that support children’s sensory needs.
Causes of SPD
Causes of SPD can vary from person to person, as everyone’s sensory processing system is unique. However, there are some common factors that have been identified. One potential cause is genetic predisposition. Research suggests that certain genes may play a role in the development of sensory processing issues.
Another possible cause is early life experiences and environmental factors. Traumatic events or a lack of exposure to different sensory stimuli during critical periods of brain development can impact how the brain processes and interprets sensory information.
Neurological differences have also been linked to SPD. Studies have shown differences in brain structure and function in individuals with sensory processing issues compared to those without.
Additionally, prenatal and birth complications such as prematurity or low birth weight may contribute to the development of SPD.
It’s important to note that while these factors may increase the likelihood of developing SPD, they do not guarantee it. The exact causes and mechanisms behind this condition are still being researched.
Understanding the possible causes can help caregivers and professionals tailor their approach when supporting individuals with sensory processing difficulties. By addressing underlying factors, it becomes easier to implement effective strategies for managing SPD on a day-to-day basis.
Ten Fundamental Facts About SPD
1. Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a condition that affects how the brain processes and responds to sensory information from the environment.
2. SPD can affect individuals of all ages, but it is commonly diagnosed in children. It is estimated that 1 in 20 children experiences symptoms of SPD.
3. There are three main subtypes of SPD: sensory modulation disorder (over or under responsive to sensory stimuli), sensory discrimination disorder (difficulty processing and interpreting sensory information), and sensory-based motor disorder (problems with coordination and movement).
4. The symptoms of SPD can vary widely from person to person, but common signs include hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to touch, sound, taste, smell, sight, balance, or body awareness.
5. Individuals with SPD may struggle with everyday activities such as eating certain foods due to their textures or smells, wearing certain fabrics due to sensitivities on the skin, or being overwhelmed by loud noises.
6. Early intervention is crucial for children with SPD as it can help them develop coping strategies and improve their overall functioning.
7. Occupational therapy is often recommended as a primary treatment for individuals with SPD. It focuses on providing therapeutic activities that address specific sensory challenges.
8. Sensory diets are frequently used in managing symptoms of SPD. These involve incorporating specific activities throughout the day that provide necessary input for individual’s unique needs.
9. SPD is not recognized officially as a standalone diagnosis in diagnostic manuals like DSM-5; however many professionals recognize its existence and impact on daily functioning.
10. SPD has gained more attention in recent years thanks to increased awareness about neurodiversity and the importance of understanding different neurological conditions.
Understanding these fundamental facts about Sensory Processing Disorder helps create empathy and support for individuals who experience this condition every day
What are sensory processing issues?
What are sensory processing issues? Sensory processing issues, also known as sensory processing disorder (SPD), occur when the brain has difficulty receiving and responding to information from the senses. This can affect any of the eight sensory systems: touch, taste, smell, sight, hearing, vestibular (movement), proprioceptive (body awareness), and interoceptive (internal sensations).
Individuals with SPD may experience either over-responsivity or under-responsivity in one or more sensory systems. Over-responsive individuals may be hypersensitive to certain stimuli, such as loud noises or textures. They may feel overwhelmed by their surroundings and exhibit avoidance behaviours.
On the other hand, under-responsive individuals may have difficulty registering and responding to sensory input. They may seek out intense sensations or engage in repetitive behaviours to stimulate their senses.
Sensory processing issues can impact various aspects of daily life. Children with SPD might struggle with self-regulation, social interactions, motor skills development, attention span, and academic performance.
Understanding these challenges is crucial for parents and caregivers so they can provide appropriate support and accommodations for children with sensory processing difficulties.
The internal senses
The internal senses play a crucial role in our daily lives, yet they often go unnoticed. These sensory systems are responsible for providing us with important information about our bodies and the environment around us. They help us regulate our body’s functions and maintain balance.
One of the key internal senses is proprioception, which allows us to be aware of where our body is in space. It provides feedback about the position and movement of our muscles and joints. This sense helps us coordinate movements, maintain posture, and exert appropriate force when performing tasks.
Another important internal sense is interoception, which gives us information about what is happening inside our bodies. It allows us to recognize hunger, thirst, fatigue, pain, and other bodily sensations. Interoception plays a vital role in self-regulation by helping us respond appropriately to these internal cues.
The vestibular system also falls under the category of internal senses. It provides information about balance and spatial orientation by detecting changes in head position and movement. The vestibular system works closely with vision to help us maintain stability while moving or navigating through space.
Understanding these internal senses can be helpful when it comes to addressing sensory processing challenges. By recognizing how these systems function and interact with each other, we can develop targeted strategies to support individuals who may have difficulties processing sensory information.
In conclusion: The internal senses are an integral part of how we navigate the world around us. By understanding their role and impact on sensory processing, we can better support individuals who may struggle with sensory challenges.
A sensory checklist
A sensory checklist can be a useful tool for parents and caregivers to identify and understand their child’s unique sensory processing needs. By observing and noting how your child responds to different sensory stimuli, you can gain insight into their individual sensitivities or aversions. Here are some key areas to consider when creating a sensory checklist:
1. Visual Input: Does your child have any preferences or challenges with bright lights, cluttered environments, or specific patterns?
2. Auditory Input: How does your child react to loud sounds, background noise, or certain pitches? Are they easily startled by sudden noises?
3. Tactile Input: Pay attention to how your child responds to different textures on their skin – do they avoid certain clothing fabrics or have trouble tolerating certain types of touch?
4. Proprioceptive Input: This refers to the sense of body awareness and muscle movement. Does your child seek out activities that provide deep pressure input (like hugs or squeezing) or do they seem uncomfortable with physical contact?
5. Vestibular Input: Consider how your child reacts to movements such as swinging, spinning, or being upside down. Do these activities make them feel anxious or disoriented?
6. Gustatory Input: Take note of any food aversions, texture preferences, or sensitivities related to taste.
7. Olfactory Input: How does your child respond to different smells? Are there any scents that bother them more than others?
8. Interoceptive Awareness: This relates to internal sensations like hunger/fullness cues, body temperature regulation, and recognizing emotions.
By carefully documenting these observations in a sensory checklist over time, you can start pinpointing patterns and triggers that may impact mealtime experiences for your little one! Understanding their unique sensory needs is the first step towards finding effective strategies and interventions that can support healthy eating habits and overall well-being.
Over responsive
Over responsive sensory processing is when a child’s senses are heightened, causing them to have intense reactions to certain stimuli. This can make everyday activities, such as eating, challenging for both the child and their parents.
One common example of over responsiveness is when a child refuses to eat certain foods due to their texture or smell. They may experience extreme discomfort or even disgust at the thought of trying new foods. The sensation of food in their mouth may feel overwhelming, leading them to reject it altogether.
In addition to food aversions, children with over responsive sensory processing may also be sensitive to sounds, lights, or touch. They might cover their ears in noisy environments or become upset if touched unexpectedly.
It’s important for parents and caregivers to understand that these reactions are not intentional or defiant behaviours. Rather, they are a result of how the child’s brain processes sensory information.
To help children with over responsive sensory processing overcome difficulties with eating, occupational therapy can be beneficial. Therapists can work on desensitizing the child’s senses by gradually exposing them to different textures and smells associated with food.
Understanding and addressing over responsive sensory processing issues can greatly improve a child’s ability and willingness to eat a variety of foods. By providing appropriate support and strategies tailored specifically for each individual child’s needs, mealtimes can become less stressful and more enjoyable experiences for everyone involved.
Under responsive
Sensory processing issues can significantly impact a child’s eating habits and overall well-being. Understanding the different sensory systems and how they contribute to our perception of food can help parents and caregivers develop effective strategies to address these challenges.
One common experience for individuals with sensory processing issues is being under responsive to certain stimuli. Children who are under responsive may have difficulty detecting or responding appropriately to sensory input, including taste, texture, temperature, and even hunger cues. As a result, they may show little interest in eating or have a limited range of preferred foods.
It’s important for parents and caregivers to be patient and understanding when working with children who are under responsive. It may take time for them to build awareness and sensitivity to different textures or flavors. Gradual exposure through repeated tastings or introducing new foods in familiar contexts can help desensitize their response.
Engaging their other senses during meals can also be helpful. For example, incorporating visual appeal by arranging foods in an attractive manner or using colorful plates can make mealtime more enticing. Adding scents such as herbs or spices can stimulate their sense of smell, making the experience more enjoyable.
Offering choices within boundaries is another strategy that allows children with under responsiveness to feel more empowered during meals. Allowing them some control over what they eat while still ensuring balanced nutrition helps foster independence while addressing their specific needs.
Consulting with healthcare professionals such as occupational therapists who specialize in sensory integration therapy can provide additional guidance on managing under responsiveness related to eating difficulties.
Remember that every child is unique, and finding what works best for your child may require some trial and error. By understanding the various aspects of sensory processing difficulties related to eating habits, you’ll be better equipped to support your child’s nutritional needs while fostering positive experiences around food.
By implementing appropriate strategies tailored specifically towards your child’s individual preferences and sensitivities, you will empower them not only in developing healthier relationships with food but also in their overall sensory processing abilities.
The 8 sensory reasons your child does not want to eat
There are many reasons why your child may not want to eat. Here are 8 sensory-related reasons:
1. The texture of the food may be off-putting. If the texture is too slimy, mushy, or crunchy, your child may not want to eat it.
2. The smell of the food may be unappetizing. If it smells too strong or unpleasant, your child may not want to put it in their mouth.
3. The taste of the food may be unappealing. If it tastes too bland, spicy, or sweet, your child may not want to eat it.
4. The temperature of the food may be uncomfortable. If it’s too hot or cold, your child may not want to eat it.
5. The color of the food may be off-putting. If it’s an unappealing color, your child may not want to eat it.
6. The sight of the food may be unappetizing. If it looks like something they don’t want to eat, they probably won’t!
7. Your child may be sensitive to certain textures, smells, tastes, temperatures, or colors and simply can’t tolerate them in their food. This can make eating a very unpleasant experience for them.
8. Your child’s senses might just be overloaded at mealtimes if there’s too much going on around them – from noise to bright lights. These various stimuli can be overwhelming and divert your child’s attention from the food they’re eating.
The 5th and 6th senses: smell and taste
The 5th and 6th senses, smell and taste, play important roles in why your child may not want to eat. If food smells bad or tastes unpleasant, your child is likely to refuse it. Additionally, if your child is coming down with a cold or sinus infection, their sense of smell may be heightened, making even the most delicious foods unappetizing. In this case, focus on offering foods with strong aromas or flavours that will be more enticing.
The 3rd and4th senses: sight and touch
Have you ever wondered why your child seems to be more interested in playing with their food than actually eating it? It could be because they are relying on their sight and touch to learn about the world around them, and not just their sense of taste.
If your child is constantly putting their hands in their food or dropping pieces on the floor, they may be trying to figure out what it feels like. And if they seem more interested in looking at their food than actually eating it, they may be using their sense of sight to learn about the world around them.
Encouraging your child to use all of their senses when exploring new foods can help them develop a better understanding of the world around them and may even make eating more fun!
The 1st and 2nd senses: hearing and vestibular (balance)
The first and second senses, hearing and vestibular (balance), work together to give your child a sense of where their body is in space. This is important for coordination and movement. If there is a problem with either the hearing or vestibular system, it can make eating difficult for your child.
How to pick the right foods for your picky eater
If your child is a picky eater, it can be difficult to know what to feed them. You want to make sure they’re getting the nutrients they need, but you also don’t want to end up with a kitchen full of half-eaten meals. Here are some tips for choosing the right foods for your picky eater:
1. Stick to familiar foods. Picky eaters are often more comfortable with foods they’re familiar with. If you’re introducing new foods, start with ones that are similar to ones they already like.
2. Avoid strong flavors and textures. Foods that are very sweet, spicy, or have a strong flavor can be overwhelming for picky eaters. Choose milder options instead.
3. Cut food into small pieces. Smaller pieces are easier for picky eaters to chew and swallow. They might also be less intimidated by food that’s not in huge chunks.
4. Offer a variety of food groups. It’s important to offer a variety of food groups, even if your child only eats a few items from each group. This will help ensure they’re getting the nutrients they need.
5. Be patient. It can take time for a picky eater to get used to new foods. Don’t give up if they don’t like something at first – keep offering it and eventually they may come around!
If your child has sensory processing disorder
If your child has sensory processing disorder, they may be more sensitive to certain flavors, textures, and sounds. This can make it difficult for them to eat food safely and efficiently. To help your child eat safely and effectively, try these tips:
1. Encourage your child to try new foods. Help them feel comfortable trying new foods, and don’t pressure them into eating something they’re not comfortable with.
2. Make sure food is safe. Make sure all food is safe for your child to eat, even if they don’t like it. Try to avoid foods with strong flavors, textures, or smells.
3. Provide a safe environment. Make sure the food your child is eating is in a safe environment, free from loud noises, bright lights, and other distractions.
4. Provide a variety of textures. Try to provide a variety of textures in order to help your child feel more comfortable with food. This can include things like crunchy, soft, and wet textures.
5. Provide a variety of flavors. Try to provide a variety of flavors in order to help your child feel more comfortable with food. This can include things like sweet, sour, salty, and bitter flavors.
6. Provide a variety of sounds. Try to provide a variety of sounds in order to help your child feel more comfortable with food. This can include things like crunching, chewing, and swallowing.
7. Brush the inside of your child’s cheeks and tongue. This can help desensitise their mouths to certain flavors and textures.
8. Let them chew ice before you start. This can numb their mouths a little bit and make it easier for them to try new things or tolerate certain textures.
How anxiety can affect eating
People with sensory processing disorder may have anxiety in certain environments as their senses are overloaded. Anxiety can present itself in many different ways. Here are some examples of anxiety due to sensory overload may look like:
1. Avoidance of certain foods or situations.
2. Restlessness or fidgeting.
4. Hiding
5. Covering of mouth, ears or eyes
6. Crying
7. Destructive behaviour (such as throwing food, smashing dishes, or biting fingers)
Sensory activities you can do to calm your child down
There are a few things you can do to help your child with sensory processing disorder calm down and manage their anxiety. These activities can help them feel more in control and less overwhelmed.
1. Have your child use a vibrating toothbrush. This oral sensory work will help them decrease their oral sensitivities.
2. Celebrate the victories with the foods they will eat and then build on that repertoire by introducing similar foods or by slightly changing the texture of the foods they will eat. For example, if your child will only eat raw carrots, try cooking them for only a minute or two so that they are almost the texture of a raw carrot.
3. Encourage them to play with food. This may sound counterintuitive, but by using food in sensory play, your child will familiarize themselves with different foods and textures. This may help them be less nervous about trying new foods. Try cooked spaghetti in a sensory bin or painting with pudding or mashed potatoes.
4. Explore textures through activities such as sensory bins, bags, and other sensory play type activities.
5. Allow your child to help prepare food. This obviously needs to be done in an age appropriate way. Having your child handle the food, and help with cooking, makes the food less intimidating.
6. Change the environment where you typically eat. Will eating on the floor like a picnic encourage your child to try something new? Of course, this will not be possible for every meal. Also, if you have a child who is used to having meals in the same place and has difficulty with change or transitions, this may not be helpful for them at all.
7. When you want to try something new, always explore it as much as possible first. Feel it, smell it, scratch it and then leave it. When you have done this for a couple of weeks prior to trying the new food item, it will have greatly reduced the amount of anxiety around it.
8. Never lie to your child. If you are only going to try three bites, makes sure you are only trying three. Sometimes you can get so excited that they are eating something new that you sneak in a bite or two. This will just destroy the trust they have in you and you will have to start all over again.
Conclusion
Eating is a multi-sensory experience and understanding the sensory reasons why your child may not want to eat can help you better support them. The 8 sensory tips we have discussed are picky eating, food texture, sight of food, smell of food, temperature of food, sound of food, taste bud sensitivity and hunger cues. It’s essential to identify possible underlying issues as soon as possible in order to prevent any negative health impacts associated with refusal or avoidance of certain foods. With patience and understanding from parents or carers along with encouragement from professionals like occupational therapists, overcoming sensory issues regarding eating is a very achievable goal!