Did you know that children who are picky eaters might have sensory issues that make it difficult for them to try new foods?
Understanding how your child's senses work is key, especially when dealing with picky eating habits.
Eating isn't just about filling the belly; it's a sensory experience too. Kids use all their senses while eating.
For some kids, the way certain foods look or smell can be overwhelming, making them hesitant to try them. Texture, flavor, and even temperature can also play a big role in what foods they prefer.
Sensory sensitivity in children can often go unnoticed for a while unless a professional like an occupational therapist or speech pathologist identifies it. When we recognize and deal with sensory issues, it not only helps us as parents to understand our child's eating habits and daily routines better, but it also improves our child's reactions to different situations.
Signs Your Picky Eater Child Might Have Trouble Eating Due to Sensory Issues with Food
So how do you know if sensory problems are contributing to your picky eater's feeding behavior?
Here are some signs that your child might have trouble with sensory processing when it comes to eating. This list isn't exhaustive, but if you notice your child showing any of these behaviors, it might be a good idea to have them evaluated by a specialist with sensory integration training.
If your child has sensory issues with food they may:
Cover their ears when they hear loud noises or sounds that don't seem to bother anyone else, like people talking loudly or background noise from music or the TV.
Get easily upset when others at the table are chewing loudly, scraping silverware against their plates, or doing other regular eating activities.
Close their eyes or shield them from too much going on in the room, like seeing lots of foods on their plate or table, or if the room is too bright for them.
Struggle with wet, sticky, or messy hands or face. Some kids might need to change their clothes if even a little water spills on them.
React strongly, like holding their nose, gagging, or even throwing up, when they encounter foods they're not familiar with.
It's good to recognize these signs of sensory issues with food, and it's important to remember that every child is unique, so sensory challenges can vary a lot from one child to another.
The Impact of Sensory Issues for Our Kids
Sensory issues can affect how a child feels and behaves at home, at school, and during social activities. Understanding and accommodating these challenges can make a big difference in your child's daily life, fostering their confidence and overall well-being. Being attentive to your child's needs and preferences can help create a supportive environment where they feel comfortable and understood.
Seeking professional guidance and support can also provide valuable insights and strategies to better understand what's going on and how to effectively address your child's sensory needs. By working together with teachers, therapists, and other professionals, you can create a supportive network that helps your child thrive in various environments.
It's important to mention that a lot of kids with sensory issues are also picky eaters. Eating requires the use of all our senses, and interacting with food can sometimes be an overwhelming experience for kids. If you have a picky eater and you're worried that their eating struggles could be due to sensory issues, it's a good idea to discuss it with their pediatrician or another qualified professional who can connect you with the right support and treatment options. Some specialists, like occupational therapists, have special training in sensory integration therapy and can assist your child (and you) in addressing sensory challenges.
My short guide, Build a Better Eater explains the 'Why?' behind picky eating and gives you the 'How To' plan to help transform your picky eater into a brave taster! Get my must-have strategies to help your picky eater try new foods.
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All blog content shared through HealthSmart! Kids is for informational purposes only and not to be construed as medical advice. Always talk with your qualified health care provider for managing your health care needs.