Video bank: Tips for reducing sugary snacking for autistic children

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0:00 Intro
0:45 Understanding grazing and snacking
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Grazing and frequent snacking can be a result of boredom or lack of structured meal times.
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For autistic children, these habits might be more pronounced due to sensory preferences and routines.
02:02 Strategies to reduce grazing and snacking
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Implementing a structured eating schedule can help reduce the tendency to graze.
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Encouraging children, including autistic children, to participate in meal planning and preparation can make them more invested in regular meal times.
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Limiting the availability of snacks and offering healthier alternatives can also be beneficial.
03:07 Managing boredom and involving children
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Boredom is often a significant factor in why children graze and snack frequently.
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Providing engaging activities and involving children, especially autistic children, in joint decision-making about meals can help reduce boredom-related snacking.
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Establishing clear routines and schedules for meals and snacks can create a more predictable and healthy eating environment.
Be kind to yourself: Remember that it’s okay to have challenging days. Celebrate small victories and progress. Being patient and compassionate with yourself is just as important as being kind to your child.