How to Reduce Mealtime Battles With Neurodivergent Kids | Ep. 129

In this episode, Samantha and Lauren discuss the challenges and methods of handling food aversions in autistic children.They share personal experiences and emphasize that forcing children to eat can be counterproductive. Instead, they recommend engaging the help of a feeding therapist and employing assent-based strategies.Steps include gradually introducing the disliked food by first placing it nearby, then on the plate, and finally encouraging the child to touch, smell, and play with the food before tasting it.Samantha and Lauren stress the importance of patience and allowing children to progress at their own pace, while also highlighting the benefits of involving children in meal preparation and planning. 00:40 Feeding Therapy for Neurodivergent Kids01:12 Personal Stories and Challenges with Food Aversions04:35 Steps to Help Kids Try New Foods05:43 The Importance of Feeding Therapy and Exposure Therapy14:22 Final Tips and Encouragement19:39 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes Join the Neurodivergent Parenting Community: The Neurodivergent Parenting Community | Every Brain is DifferentHarkla Link: Harkla - Special Needs Products for Happier and Healthier Families  Connect with Samantha Foote!Website: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferentYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent