The scene shows a table washed in a warm glow of smiles and pleasantries. If you have seen this image, it probably won’t surprise you that there are many benefits when families sit down to enjoy meals together.1 Positive influences begin as early as the toddler and preschool years and they extend into adulthood.1 Families that have structured meals may also have children with lower body mass indexes (BMI), decreased rates of overweight, and healthy dietary and eating patterns.2 Adolescents who eat three or more meals per week with their caregivers are less likely to have disordered eating or substance abuse issues.1,2 Talking during meals can improve communication skills, strengthen the family dynamic, and improve children’s self-esteem.1

"My son only ate foods that were yellow, brown, and white: chicken nuggets, french fries, mac and cheese, vanilla cookies.

The only green thing he would eat was mint chocolate chip ice cream."

However, the media has neglectT ed to show a far more typical family mealtime. A realistic portrayal is a parent acting as a short-order cook, food flung onto the floor, children crying, and a general feeling of chaos looming. Mealtimes are hard work for all parents, and they can be especially challenging for families and children living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ASD is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social deficits and repetitive patterns of behaviors.3 It is

estimated that up to 89% of children with ASD experience some challenging mealtime behavior.4 Common issues include food selectivity, fear of new foods (also called neophobia), and disruptive behaviors. Meal challenges can begin early in life and extend through adolescents and adulthood.4

Children with ASD may have increased sensitivities to certain foods.5 For example, foods that are crunchy, brightly colored, or too hot/cold may be difficult to process from a sensory perspective.5 To combat uncomfortable sensations, children may prefer a limited number of foods that they feel safe eating.

“From the time he was 18 months, my son only ate foods that were yellow, brown, and white: chicken nuggets, french fries, mac and cheese, vanilla cookies. He ate anything in that carbohydrate category. The only green thing he would eat was mint chocolate chip ice cream. If I made green vegetables, like a salad, he would vomit. If I cut lettuce in front of him, he would vomit just from looking at it. He was so overwhelmed by the sight or smell of fruits and vegetables that he couldn’t be around us if we were cooking or eating them.” – A.M. about her son R.M. who is diagnosed with ASD.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT: The "ideal" family meal is one where you and your family feel calm and relaxed, and your child consumes a variety of foods. Hopefully, by making a few small changes, you can create a mealtime that you and your family look forward to.