from Mealtimepartners.com
Autism is a relatively common developmental disorder. It is
estimated to occur in 1 in every 1,000 births and occurs four times as
frequently in boys as girls. Autism is typically diagnosed between the
ages of 1 to 4 years and is characterized by speech and communication
delays and difficulties; troubles with social behavior including failure
to develop typical peer interactions and relationships; repetitive
stereotypical behaviors and movement patterns; preoccupation with
specific objects and intense interest in specific things, e.g., trains;
non-typical interactions with toys, among other symptoms. Children with
autism have sensory integration problems including being bothered by
things that are rough on their skin (socks, shirts, underwear), loud
noises, bright lights, smells, etc., and they like to have a routine and
are distressed should a routine change. More information
about autism can be found at many sites on the internet. NIH PubMed Health provides a thorough description. Also, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke have an Autism Fact Sheet that includes a list of organizations that can provide more information.
It is not unusual for children who have a diagnosis of being on the autism spectrum to be described as picky or fussy
eaters. In many cases the child is not just being a picky eater, as is
common with many children as they evolve from being fed to becoming
independent at mealtimes, they are exhibiting patterns of selective eating.
(Selective eating is the clinical term for the little studied
phenomenon of eating a highly limited range of foods, and being
unwilling to try new foods.) Most children will outgrow this trait and
become typical eaters; however, children with autism may carry their
selective eating patterns into adulthood. Read the entire article...
... For many children the interface with another person at
mealtimes can compound the behavioral difficulties that can be
associated with eating. For those who are unable or unwilling to
self-feed, the removal of the feeding partner can lessen the behavioral
difficulties. The Mealtime Partner Dining System can provide a way for a
child to self-feed, select the foods that they wish to, or are willing
to eat and not have to deal with another person. Additionally, many
children with autism enjoy technology and using adaptive switches and
because of this trait, the Mealtime Partner Dining System can provide a
positive experience relating to eating. For more information about the
Mealtime Partner, click here.
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