Food and Health
Diet and mealtimes can be a worry for many parents and carers. We know that eating well can affect a child’s health & wellbeing both now and in the future. Their energy levels, sleep, mood, attention, immune system and general physical health are all influenced by the food they eat.
At the same time, neurodevelopmental differences can make it harder for children to accept the diet we would like them to have.
Below are some guidelines and strategies that may help.
Guidelines on Children’s Food
Ideally, children should eat regular meals and eat a varied diet. Eating regular meals. Including 3 meals and two or three snacks a day, helps to keep the levels of sugar in our blood nice and steady.
Understanding and Managing Picky Eating
Picky eating is a typical developmental stage that most often develops in the 2nd year of life and typically fades from the age of 5 or 6. Some children are pickier for longer, including into adulthood.
“Special” diets for children with Autism
“Special” diets and specific supplements are often promoted for children with Autism. Quite often, the quality of scientific evidence behind these interventions is not very good at all.
Bumps to Bairns
Highland site assembled by a range of specialists to support parents and those who work with young children.
The Ellyn Satter Institute
Website on how to help children develop a healthy relationship with food.
Specialist Dietitian
The Pines is host to Specialist Dietitian, David Rex. He works mostly with families who have children with neurodevelopmental difficulties. He is the author of most of the information you’ve probably just looked at.
Most of the families he advises have children on the Autistic spectrum. They are more likely to be picky, highly selective or avoidant around food. A confirmed diagnosis is not necessary.
