What an autistic child's food plate may look like
Overview
Autistic children may prefer fewer items on their plate to avoid overwhelming them with too many choices or too much sensory information. Smaller portion sizes with the option to have more can also be helpful. Here’s what their plate might typically include:
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Simple foods- Foods that are not mixed or touching each other. Plain pasta, a side of vegetables.
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Familiar favourites- Repeated inclusion of familiar and preferred foods to ensure the child feels comfortable and is more likely to eat.
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Nutrient-dense snacks- Due to potentially limited variety in their diet, including nutrient-dense snacks can help meet their nutritional needs.
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‘Unhealthy snacks’ may be essential as part of a more limited diet. These can also provide sensory eating experiences the child enjoys.
Food plates created by families
Here are some examples of food plates sent in by families.
Key messages
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