For families of children in the spectrum, mealtimes can sometimes be a demanding endeavor. Learn about common mealtime challenges and ways to address them so that you can enjoy the best part of family meals — each other.

MEALTIMES FOR CHILDREN LIVING WITH ASD

BY HEATHER SEID, MS, RDN, CPS, CNSC, CLC AND JANE ZIEGLER, DCN, RDN, LDN

You have probably seen the "ideal" family meal on television at least once or twice. Relaxed parents pass around balanced meals, while hungry children, who always say please and thank you, eat mounds of vegetables and whole grains without complaint.