Autistic kids tend to be fussy eaters. They may protest when made to try new foods or insist on eating the same thing over and over again at each meal. They have limited food choices or exhibit strong, even aggressive, dislike of certain foods, or smells or textures of foods. They may be constipated due to narrowed food choices and gastrointestinal issues. Parents should not not give up and remind them that it’s important to keep working with your child on what they are eating and their eating habits.
All children need well-balanced diets with foods full of vitamins, healthy fats (omega-3s), protein, and calcium to help their brains develop and bodies grow strong. Some ways to improve their eating habits are:
Lean into their pickiness- Take your child to the grocery store with you and make it a fun adventure to let them pick out a new fruit or vegetable, and then perhaps even let it sit on the counter for a few days so they can study it–touch it, smell it, etc. Then have your child research popular recipes featuring the new food and have them help you prepare it to their liking.
Make mealtimes routine, and even boring- Eliminate things around the kitchen that could distract them from eating and finishing, such as the television or computers, cell phones, bright lights, pets, or noisy appliances.
Be cautious about restrictive diets and/or seek guidance from a registered nutritionist- Many parents claim that a gluten or casein-free diet can help lessen autism symptoms. Gluten is found in wheat and other grain products, and casein is found in dairy—both are thought to have negative effects on brain function in those with autism. However there are conflicting reports about the diet. This diet mostly helps in kids with gastrointestinal issues. The help of a registered dietician will help you fill in the gaps where they might be missing out on a restrictive diet
As a parent, you must be disheartened about encountering the fact that your child is autistic and must be worried about his/her future. Though you are meeting with doctors and therapists regularly, it is extremely important to closely monitor your child’s growth. Medical care and therapy sessions are lined up for your child but your efforts create a positive impact on the child. To make things easy for you, here we have compiled the list of simple everyday things that make a significant difference in your child’s life:
POSITIVITY Like any other child, children with autism disorder respond well to a positive environment. It implies that you can appreciate them for the behavior they are exhibiting; they will feel better. Be certain about what behavior you want them to exhibit and praise them accordingly. Reward them like extra playtime, give them their favorite toys etc. As a parent, you should reward your child for who they are because love is the key for significant improvement.
CONSISTENCY Make them habitual to stick around the routine. Having a consistent routine would allow them to practice what they learn in therapy sessions. This practice will enable them to learn and apply new skills/behaviors in different situations. Have a brief discussion with their teachers and therapists regarding techniques and methods of interactions so that they can efficiently apply them in their daily life.
PLAY TIME Make them participate in activities like pure fun besides therapy or education. This will help your child to connect with others and open up more.
Derived from the Sanskrit word “Yuji,” Yoga stands for union or yoke which translates to abundance, healing, and peace. Yoga has been a practice since ancient times, and it has worked miracles in a million lives as an ancient practice that brings together the body and the mind at a still stop. Yoga has been a practice of oneness and unity that helps benefit your mental and physical well-being. Originated from the “Rig Veda” which is one of the four ancient sacred texts written in Sanskrit, Yoga can be traced over 5,000 years ago to northern India.
The science of yoga has its origin thousands of years ago but its benefits persist. From improving mental health to helping develop physical strength and harness peaceful energies, Yoga isn’t limited in its healing powers.
Dyslexia is commonly known as the “reading disorder.” It is a learning disorder that affects the ability to read, spell, speak and write in people. Dyslexia has nothing to do with the smartness or motivation to learn. People and kids with Dyslexia have trouble reading at a good pace and without any mistakes. They may also suffer from a difficult time with comprehension while spelling, reading, and writing.
Dyslexia is one of the most common conditions that makes it difficult for people to read. Experts believe that almost 5 to 10% of people suffer from Dyslexia. Other experts also suggest that 17% of people showcase signs of reading challenges.
