Food Selectivity During Thanksgiving - Tips and Tricks for a Memorable Meal

October is behind us, and the holiday season is quickly approaching. For many families, Thanksgiving is a time for fabulous feasting filled with traditional foods with many flavors. For families of children with food selectivity, thoughts of Thanksgiving may be stressful and evoke anxiety. Although it is natural for parents to identify Thanksgiving as a time for their child to try new foods, these plans often end with bargaining, protests, or even tears. To assist with supporting both a happy and healthy holiday, here are a few strategies to keep in mind that may be helpful.

1. Establish a Plan
   With many parents balancing work and virtual learning, the thought of taking time to plan may seem impossible. However, in the great words of Eleanor Roosevelt, "it takes as much energy to wish as it does to plan." Planning your meal relates to setting your goals which is important with any food selectivity program. Try to involve your child into the meal plan by asking or allowing them to choose a food that they would like on the menu. Avoid asking in a way that can be answered with "no". Instead, frame questions as choices (ex. "Are you going to pick a fruit or a vegetable?") You can also give choices within the same food groups such as "turkey or ham?" Consider colors or textures that your child typically enjoys.
   
   
2. Identify the Variables
   Remember, Thanksgiving and other holidays can be overwhelming. New foods, smells, voices, and even spaces for those that may travel. For children with special needs, emotions may be amplified. Keep this in mind. Try to stick to your plan and have your reinforcers ready. Every little bite counts, so even 1/4 of a teaspoonful of a different food is progress. Bring some backup snacks if needed, but try to limit access to preferred foods or extensive liquids prior to meal times. For those that are traveling, it may also help to pack those familiar utensils/dishes.
   
   
3. Make Mealtime Fun
   Let's face it, it has been a rough year. Remember that meal times are for making memories with family. Relax and make sure to make the environment as calm as possible. Involve your child in setting the table, and in simple steps in food prep. This will help with the pairing process to create a safe space which will relax your child and make them more likely to engage in requests during mealtimes.
   
   

For more information regarding food selectivity, view our Parent Corner video on Food Selectivity here. 

Wishing you a happy and healthy Thanksgiving, 
From the Kinney Center for Autism Education and Support