Guest guest Posted July 19, 2005 Report Share Posted July 19, 2005 Not much time to post, but wanted to say Theresa did go off her fast (still copying her sister of course) and agreed to see the ED doctor at his clinic today- in part b/c she calmed down after talking to her sister, and in part b/c she realized that I had no intention of not going to the emergency room if she did not eat, or else would call 911 (my plan was to sit in the emgcy parking lot however long it took untill she would go in voluntarily (hospital wil not attempt bring in an unwilling child, you have to get police and ambulance even if you are right out there) or until she began to pass out (in reality I am not willing to have her meet police or go in restraints to get into the hospital, it would undue any hope of cooperation). She was so relieved to clear up that her sister did NOT try to trick her, that she calmed down and was sorry for all the panic driven screaming abuse and 2 days of constant meltdowns, and I think wants to make it up somehow, although going to the clinic will be very hard for her. It had appeared my older daughter had hidden a piece of uneaten sandwich in a napkin (Theresa had consumed all of the same sandwich) but rather than addressing it, since it was not true (she had spit out a piece of bread that had slimy egg yolk on it from an egg sandwich) she had stayed in her room the entire day during Theresa's meltdowns b/c she cannot handle the stress-she has her own OCD/ mood/ trich/ tics/depressive issues. So that (uneaten food seeming like trickery) was what triggered the fast. If Theresa goes today (and still says she is willing) it will be a foot in the door and maybe it will lead to a positive outcome-so far utter paranoia has prevented medical care or monitoring. Just seeing this doctor(who seems very low key and patient) and clinic (small family room type atmosphere) will relieve some of her paranoia (that she will be tricked/sent away again). I know Theresa has alot more than the eating disorder (counting rituals, many fears and phobias including severe with touch, and severe social anxiety all that has worened in last year) but her weight has to be restored before anything else- many meds are even contraindicated at her very low weight. I believe her low weight has triggered much worse/disordered chemistry in her brain, causing more violent episodes never seen before, not to mention the PTSD type stuff(flashbacks, screaming, nightmares) following the residential facility confinement. As to having her sister help, the last hospital trip my older daughter did come along (the first hospital trip I had to wrap Theresa in a blanket and force her and she moaned the entire drive) b/c Theresa hates to be separated from her, and b/c she is the person least likely that Theresa will have a panic meltdown with. However my older daughter left eventually, exhausted, and afterwards Theresa did have a panic meltdown in the hospital (which precipitated her late night admsison to the residential psych/behavioral facility). One of our objectives (with therapy) is to actually disengage my older daughter from this as much as possible, it is driving her bonkers, and has stalled her life for months in many respects (it also I think gves her excuses to practice avoidance and withdrawal at times-related to her own anxiety) even if she does go out and try to have a normal time, she deals with knowing Theresa will not be eating at all and will be having panic meltdowns due to her absence, plus she feels she has to eat for Theresa rather than for herself. About the sugar pills, we thought of that but Theresa is so scrupulous in her checking and reassurance questions that she would question relentlessly and then we would have to lie outright. Just an example, if my older daughter has a half can of soup, Theresa measures out the same amt broth (from another same brand/can) and counts out one by one the same amt and proportions of vegetables noodles etc, that were remaining in her sister's can, to duplicate it, she does not just finish the same can (don't know why exactly) or pour the same amt in the same size bowl. Thanks alot for concerns, I hope this ED clinic leads to something helpful. nancy > When reading your post I got to thinking about the idea of giving sis > some sugar pill and getting med for your Theresa compounded to look > like it. Maybe then she'd start? > > I feel for you, such a difficult situation... > > Debi Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 19, 2005 Report Share Posted July 19, 2005 Not much time to post, but wanted to say Theresa did go off her fast (still copying her sister of course) and agreed to see the ED doctor at his clinic today- in part b/c she calmed down after talking to her sister, and in part b/c she realized that I had no intention of not going to the emergency room if she did not eat, or else would call 911 (my plan was to sit in the emgcy parking lot however long it took untill she would go in voluntarily (hospital wil not attempt bring in an unwilling child, you have to get police and ambulance even if you are right out there) or until she began to pass out (in reality I am not willing to have her meet police or go in restraints to get into the hospital, it would undue any hope of cooperation). She was so relieved to clear up that her sister did NOT try to trick her, that she calmed down and was sorry for all the panic driven screaming abuse and 2 days of constant meltdowns, and I think wants to make it up somehow, although going to the clinic will be very hard for her. It had appeared my older daughter had hidden a piece of uneaten sandwich in a napkin (Theresa had consumed all of the same sandwich) but rather than addressing it, since it was not true (she had spit out a piece of bread that had slimy egg yolk on it from an egg sandwich) she had stayed in her room the entire day during Theresa's meltdowns b/c she cannot handle the stress-she has her own OCD/ mood/ trich/ tics/depressive issues. So that (uneaten food seeming like trickery) was what triggered the fast. If Theresa goes today (and still says she is willing) it will be a foot in the door and maybe it will lead to a positive outcome-so far utter paranoia has prevented medical care or monitoring. Just seeing this doctor(who seems very low key and patient) and clinic (small family room type atmosphere) will relieve some of her paranoia (that she will be tricked/sent away again). I know Theresa has alot more than the eating disorder (counting rituals, many fears and phobias including severe with touch, and severe social anxiety all that has worened in last year) but her weight has to be restored before anything else- many meds are even contraindicated at her very low weight. I believe her low weight has triggered much worse/disordered chemistry in her brain, causing more violent episodes never seen before, not to mention the PTSD type stuff(flashbacks, screaming, nightmares) following the residential facility confinement. As to having her sister help, the last hospital trip my older daughter did come along (the first hospital trip I had to wrap Theresa in a blanket and force her and she moaned the entire drive) b/c Theresa hates to be separated from her, and b/c she is the person least likely that Theresa will have a panic meltdown with. However my older daughter left eventually, exhausted, and afterwards Theresa did have a panic meltdown in the hospital (which precipitated her late night admsison to the residential psych/behavioral facility). One of our objectives (with therapy) is to actually disengage my older daughter from this as much as possible, it is driving her bonkers, and has stalled her life for months in many respects (it also I think gves her excuses to practice avoidance and withdrawal at times-related to her own anxiety) even if she does go out and try to have a normal time, she deals with knowing Theresa will not be eating at all and will be having panic meltdowns due to her absence, plus she feels she has to eat for Theresa rather than for herself. About the sugar pills, we thought of that but Theresa is so scrupulous in her checking and reassurance questions that she would question relentlessly and then we would have to lie outright. Just an example, if my older daughter has a half can of soup, Theresa measures out the same amt broth (from another same brand/can) and counts out one by one the same amt and proportions of vegetables noodles etc, that were remaining in her sister's can, to duplicate it, she does not just finish the same can (don't know why exactly) or pour the same amt in the same size bowl. Thanks alot for concerns, I hope this ED clinic leads to something helpful. nancy > When reading your post I got to thinking about the idea of giving sis > some sugar pill and getting med for your Theresa compounded to look > like it. Maybe then she'd start? > > I feel for you, such a difficult situation... > > Debi Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 19, 2005 Report Share Posted July 19, 2005 Not much time to post, but wanted to say Theresa did go off her fast (still copying her sister of course) and agreed to see the ED doctor at his clinic today- in part b/c she calmed down after talking to her sister, and in part b/c she realized that I had no intention of not going to the emergency room if she did not eat, or else would call 911 (my plan was to sit in the emgcy parking lot however long it took untill she would go in voluntarily (hospital wil not attempt bring in an unwilling child, you have to get police and ambulance even if you are right out there) or until she began to pass out (in reality I am not willing to have her meet police or go in restraints to get into the hospital, it would undue any hope of cooperation). She was so relieved to clear up that her sister did NOT try to trick her, that she calmed down and was sorry for all the panic driven screaming abuse and 2 days of constant meltdowns, and I think wants to make it up somehow, although going to the clinic will be very hard for her. It had appeared my older daughter had hidden a piece of uneaten sandwich in a napkin (Theresa had consumed all of the same sandwich) but rather than addressing it, since it was not true (she had spit out a piece of bread that had slimy egg yolk on it from an egg sandwich) she had stayed in her room the entire day during Theresa's meltdowns b/c she cannot handle the stress-she has her own OCD/ mood/ trich/ tics/depressive issues. So that (uneaten food seeming like trickery) was what triggered the fast. If Theresa goes today (and still says she is willing) it will be a foot in the door and maybe it will lead to a positive outcome-so far utter paranoia has prevented medical care or monitoring. Just seeing this doctor(who seems very low key and patient) and clinic (small family room type atmosphere) will relieve some of her paranoia (that she will be tricked/sent away again). I know Theresa has alot more than the eating disorder (counting rituals, many fears and phobias including severe with touch, and severe social anxiety all that has worened in last year) but her weight has to be restored before anything else- many meds are even contraindicated at her very low weight. I believe her low weight has triggered much worse/disordered chemistry in her brain, causing more violent episodes never seen before, not to mention the PTSD type stuff(flashbacks, screaming, nightmares) following the residential facility confinement. As to having her sister help, the last hospital trip my older daughter did come along (the first hospital trip I had to wrap Theresa in a blanket and force her and she moaned the entire drive) b/c Theresa hates to be separated from her, and b/c she is the person least likely that Theresa will have a panic meltdown with. However my older daughter left eventually, exhausted, and afterwards Theresa did have a panic meltdown in the hospital (which precipitated her late night admsison to the residential psych/behavioral facility). One of our objectives (with therapy) is to actually disengage my older daughter from this as much as possible, it is driving her bonkers, and has stalled her life for months in many respects (it also I think gves her excuses to practice avoidance and withdrawal at times-related to her own anxiety) even if she does go out and try to have a normal time, she deals with knowing Theresa will not be eating at all and will be having panic meltdowns due to her absence, plus she feels she has to eat for Theresa rather than for herself. About the sugar pills, we thought of that but Theresa is so scrupulous in her checking and reassurance questions that she would question relentlessly and then we would have to lie outright. Just an example, if my older daughter has a half can of soup, Theresa measures out the same amt broth (from another same brand/can) and counts out one by one the same amt and proportions of vegetables noodles etc, that were remaining in her sister's can, to duplicate it, she does not just finish the same can (don't know why exactly) or pour the same amt in the same size bowl. Thanks alot for concerns, I hope this ED clinic leads to something helpful. nancy > When reading your post I got to thinking about the idea of giving sis > some sugar pill and getting med for your Theresa compounded to look > like it. Maybe then she'd start? > > I feel for you, such a difficult situation... > > Debi Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 19, 2005 Report Share Posted July 19, 2005 Debi.... We think a like...me and my husband were talking about Theresa's mothers dilema last night, and I thought... " how simple " just give the sis a sugar pill!!! Great minds think a like. Aimee Debi wrote: When reading your post I got to thinking about the idea of giving sis some sugar pill and getting med for your Theresa compounded to look like it. Maybe then she'd start? I feel for you, such a difficult situation... Debi Autism_in_Girls-subscribe ------------------------ Autism_in_Girls-unsubscribe Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 19, 2005 Report Share Posted July 19, 2005 Debi.... We think a like...me and my husband were talking about Theresa's mothers dilema last night, and I thought... " how simple " just give the sis a sugar pill!!! Great minds think a like. Aimee Debi wrote: When reading your post I got to thinking about the idea of giving sis some sugar pill and getting med for your Theresa compounded to look like it. Maybe then she'd start? I feel for you, such a difficult situation... Debi Autism_in_Girls-subscribe ------------------------ Autism_in_Girls-unsubscribe Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 19, 2005 Report Share Posted July 19, 2005 Debi.... We think a like...me and my husband were talking about Theresa's mothers dilema last night, and I thought... " how simple " just give the sis a sugar pill!!! Great minds think a like. Aimee Debi wrote: When reading your post I got to thinking about the idea of giving sis some sugar pill and getting med for your Theresa compounded to look like it. Maybe then she'd start? I feel for you, such a difficult situation... Debi Autism_in_Girls-subscribe ------------------------ Autism_in_Girls-unsubscribe Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 19, 2005 Report Share Posted July 19, 2005 This isn't the case for everyone, but Allie stopped having staring spells when we went gfcf. I can't remember if you're doing that or enzymes, but you could try one or both of those first. I think the choice of whether or not to vaccinate is in the hands of the parents. I considered disease, way of contraction, possible health risks (like does the illness typically run it's course with no long-term effects, as an example), and rate of infection in my geographic region, along with package insert warnings. For example, the DaPT states if there are first degree relatives with neurological disorders it should be weighed whether or not to vaccinate, and if someone has a neurological disorder (autism) then it should be weighed heavily. This was enough for me to choose for now to refrain from vaccinating. It's my totally unprofessional opinion as a parent and not medical professional, BTW. Debi Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 19, 2005 Report Share Posted July 19, 2005 I'd suggest the enzymes. It might bridge the gap. I also know a 12 yr old with autism, his mom gave him one enzyme and after that he won't miss a single dose. He told her his stomach doesn't hurt anymore and she said she caught him eating a grape the other day, something he NEVER does. Might not work with Ella, but thought I'd pass it on... Debi Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 20, 2005 Report Share Posted July 20, 2005 Debi, We arent on wfgf diet yet because I am having a hard time getting ella to eat anything right now. I need to fin a good bread. I have heard that the staring spells could be seizures and that gluten can cause them. Im starting to understand the " ooooppps wrong planet thing, " its like everything here is toxic to our kids. I hope if I try the deit her stims get better. All the stims make me emotionally drained as well as physically drained. I try so hard to play with her, but she just wants to run back and forth or run around squealing, and sometimes all she wants is movies. Lately I feel like i cant get through to her! Aimee Debi wrote: This isn't the case for everyone, but Allie stopped having staring spells when we went gfcf. I can't remember if you're doing that or enzymes, but you could try one or both of those first. I think the choice of whether or not to vaccinate is in the hands of the parents. I considered disease, way of contraction, possible health risks (like does the illness typically run it's course with no long-term effects, as an example), and rate of infection in my geographic region, along with package insert warnings. For example, the DaPT states if there are first degree relatives with neurological disorders it should be weighed whether or not to vaccinate, and if someone has a neurological disorder (autism) then it should be weighed heavily. This was enough for me to choose for now to refrain from vaccinating. It's my totally unprofessional opinion as a parent and not medical professional, BTW. Debi Autism_in_Girls-subscribe ------------------------ Autism_in_Girls-unsubscribe Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 20, 2005 Report Share Posted July 20, 2005 www.houstonni.com the peptizyde brand. You can email them for advice, Devin Houston, the chemist, will personally speak with you by email or phone at no charge to help. Debi > I'd suggest the enzymes. It might bridge the gap. I also know a 12 yr > old with autism, his mom gave him one enzyme and after that he won't > miss a single dose. He told her his stomach doesn't hurt anymore and > she said she caught him eating a grape the other day, something he > NEVER does. Might not work with Ella, but thought I'd pass it on... > > Debi > > > > > > > Autism_in_Girls-subscribe > ------------------------ > Autism_in_Girls-unsubscribe > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 20, 2005 Report Share Posted July 20, 2005 Just hang in there, Allie is VERY picky, too. she went for over 6 mos on nothing but chips & fries, and I mean NOTHING ELSE. She was living proof that yes kids can survive, but I sure wouldn't wanna see other kids try it. I've found since I've backed off Allie is more likely to try new things. I have heard people with autism say all sorts of things, like the odors overwhelm them to the textures make them want to vomit, to colors being too bright to look at, much less eat. one thing that seemed to work with Allie is I'd set her in front of some of her fav shows, like Sesame Street. Then I'd put a little bit of a type of food that she used to eat, like a chicken nugget, as an example. What I would find is if I waited until she was so engrossed in her show, she'd lose focus on the eating and pick it up and eat it. I don't know if she didn't feel the anxiety as much, or perhaps the focus on the visual distraction shut down overacting taste buds/smelling sense. It seemed to work better if I tried to reintroduce a food she had eaten rather recently. Another suggestion, if you do get her to eat it, try giving her some at least once a day. It seems to be that at Ella's age you might have 2 things going on. First, they tend to get extremely routine focused at that age. If they haven't eaten in a few days or weeks, they might forget how it's supposed to look and taste, then they shy away from eating it anymore. The other thing is a NT two year old doesn't eat all that much anyway, so our kids with gut issues and routine focus and overwhelming sensory input is gonna have that much more difficult a time to eat. I've also heard some people with autism say, as an example, if you are eating a taco and you give her chicken nuggets, the smell of the taco might be so strong she's too sick to eat the chicken nuggets. I liken it to taking the worst odor of the world to me (dead animal) and trying to eat a cheeseburger with that odor right next to me. I wouldn't be able to do it, and that's how many of our kids feel. You might try keeping a food diary of what family was eating and her behavior. You might find noise like a television might be too distracting or your might find noise might help her relax. Some with autism have said they have to concentrate so hard on chewing because if they don't they accidently bite their tongues and cheeks because of lack of body awareness. On the other hand, she might need external sensory input from noise and such to help calm her anxiety or overwhelming feelings. A diary noting what was going on at meal and her behavior might help you figure some of her triggers. She might do better eating before/after everyone else or in a different location. It hurts my heart that Allie doesn't eat with us, but when I think about some of these things potentially bothering her, I'd rather her eat somewhere else if she's gonna be able to eat better. HTH, Debi Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 22, 2005 Report Share Posted July 22, 2005 Debi, I have noticed Ella does better when watching a movie too! Ella also does better when I walk away and ignore her or stop prompting her to take a bite. Like you said the anxiety is probably an issue. Ella also will not mix foods. If she is eating a waffle, thats all she eating no 3 course meals here! lol! Ella had almond milk last night and actually drank it. I am trying really hard to get her off the goat milk as i found out it contains casien. I just worry about her getting enough calcium. I think 50% of the day is spent trying to feed her! thanks...as always I can count on my mommy dr.s!!! Aimee Debi wrote: Just hang in there, Allie is VERY picky, too. she went for over 6 mos on nothing but chips & fries, and I mean NOTHING ELSE. She was living proof that yes kids can survive, but I sure wouldn't wanna see other kids try it. I've found since I've backed off Allie is more likely to try new things. I have heard people with autism say all sorts of things, like the odors overwhelm them to the textures make them want to vomit, to colors being too bright to look at, much less eat. one thing that seemed to work with Allie is I'd set her in front of some of her fav shows, like Sesame Street. Then I'd put a little bit of a type of food that she used to eat, like a chicken nugget, as an example. What I would find is if I waited until she was so engrossed in her show, she'd lose focus on the eating and pick it up and eat it. I don't know if she didn't feel the anxiety as much, or perhaps the focus on the visual distraction shut down overacting taste buds/smelling sense. It seemed to work better if I tried to reintroduce a food she had eaten rather recently. Another suggestion, if you do get her to eat it, try giving her some at least once a day. It seems to be that at Ella's age you might have 2 things going on. First, they tend to get extremely routine focused at that age. If they haven't eaten in a few days or weeks, they might forget how it's supposed to look and taste, then they shy away from eating it anymore. The other thing is a NT two year old doesn't eat all that much anyway, so our kids with gut issues and routine focus and overwhelming sensory input is gonna have that much more difficult a time to eat. I've also heard some people with autism say, as an example, if you are eating a taco and you give her chicken nuggets, the smell of the taco might be so strong she's too sick to eat the chicken nuggets. I liken it to taking the worst odor of the world to me (dead animal) and trying to eat a cheeseburger with that odor right next to me. I wouldn't be able to do it, and that's how many of our kids feel. You might try keeping a food diary of what family was eating and her behavior. You might find noise like a television might be too distracting or your might find noise might help her relax. Some with autism have said they have to concentrate so hard on chewing because if they don't they accidently bite their tongues and cheeks because of lack of body awareness. On the other hand, she might need external sensory input from noise and such to help calm her anxiety or overwhelming feelings. A diary noting what was going on at meal and her behavior might help you figure some of her triggers. She might do better eating before/after everyone else or in a different location. It hurts my heart that Allie doesn't eat with us, but when I think about some of these things potentially bothering her, I'd rather her eat somewhere else if she's gonna be able to eat better. HTH, Debi Autism_in_Girls-subscribe ------------------------ Autism_in_Girls-unsubscribe Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 22, 2005 Report Share Posted July 22, 2005 Debi, I have noticed Ella does better when watching a movie too! Ella also does better when I walk away and ignore her or stop prompting her to take a bite. Like you said the anxiety is probably an issue. Ella also will not mix foods. If she is eating a waffle, thats all she eating no 3 course meals here! lol! Ella had almond milk last night and actually drank it. I am trying really hard to get her off the goat milk as i found out it contains casien. I just worry about her getting enough calcium. I think 50% of the day is spent trying to feed her! thanks...as always I can count on my mommy dr.s!!! Aimee Debi wrote: Just hang in there, Allie is VERY picky, too. she went for over 6 mos on nothing but chips & fries, and I mean NOTHING ELSE. She was living proof that yes kids can survive, but I sure wouldn't wanna see other kids try it. I've found since I've backed off Allie is more likely to try new things. I have heard people with autism say all sorts of things, like the odors overwhelm them to the textures make them want to vomit, to colors being too bright to look at, much less eat. one thing that seemed to work with Allie is I'd set her in front of some of her fav shows, like Sesame Street. Then I'd put a little bit of a type of food that she used to eat, like a chicken nugget, as an example. What I would find is if I waited until she was so engrossed in her show, she'd lose focus on the eating and pick it up and eat it. I don't know if she didn't feel the anxiety as much, or perhaps the focus on the visual distraction shut down overacting taste buds/smelling sense. It seemed to work better if I tried to reintroduce a food she had eaten rather recently. Another suggestion, if you do get her to eat it, try giving her some at least once a day. It seems to be that at Ella's age you might have 2 things going on. First, they tend to get extremely routine focused at that age. If they haven't eaten in a few days or weeks, they might forget how it's supposed to look and taste, then they shy away from eating it anymore. The other thing is a NT two year old doesn't eat all that much anyway, so our kids with gut issues and routine focus and overwhelming sensory input is gonna have that much more difficult a time to eat. I've also heard some people with autism say, as an example, if you are eating a taco and you give her chicken nuggets, the smell of the taco might be so strong she's too sick to eat the chicken nuggets. I liken it to taking the worst odor of the world to me (dead animal) and trying to eat a cheeseburger with that odor right next to me. I wouldn't be able to do it, and that's how many of our kids feel. You might try keeping a food diary of what family was eating and her behavior. You might find noise like a television might be too distracting or your might find noise might help her relax. Some with autism have said they have to concentrate so hard on chewing because if they don't they accidently bite their tongues and cheeks because of lack of body awareness. On the other hand, she might need external sensory input from noise and such to help calm her anxiety or overwhelming feelings. A diary noting what was going on at meal and her behavior might help you figure some of her triggers. She might do better eating before/after everyone else or in a different location. It hurts my heart that Allie doesn't eat with us, but when I think about some of these things potentially bothering her, I'd rather her eat somewhere else if she's gonna be able to eat better. HTH, Debi Autism_in_Girls-subscribe ------------------------ Autism_in_Girls-unsubscribe Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 22, 2005 Report Share Posted July 22, 2005 Debi, I have noticed Ella does better when watching a movie too! Ella also does better when I walk away and ignore her or stop prompting her to take a bite. Like you said the anxiety is probably an issue. Ella also will not mix foods. If she is eating a waffle, thats all she eating no 3 course meals here! lol! Ella had almond milk last night and actually drank it. I am trying really hard to get her off the goat milk as i found out it contains casien. I just worry about her getting enough calcium. I think 50% of the day is spent trying to feed her! thanks...as always I can count on my mommy dr.s!!! Aimee Debi wrote: Just hang in there, Allie is VERY picky, too. she went for over 6 mos on nothing but chips & fries, and I mean NOTHING ELSE. She was living proof that yes kids can survive, but I sure wouldn't wanna see other kids try it. I've found since I've backed off Allie is more likely to try new things. I have heard people with autism say all sorts of things, like the odors overwhelm them to the textures make them want to vomit, to colors being too bright to look at, much less eat. one thing that seemed to work with Allie is I'd set her in front of some of her fav shows, like Sesame Street. Then I'd put a little bit of a type of food that she used to eat, like a chicken nugget, as an example. What I would find is if I waited until she was so engrossed in her show, she'd lose focus on the eating and pick it up and eat it. I don't know if she didn't feel the anxiety as much, or perhaps the focus on the visual distraction shut down overacting taste buds/smelling sense. It seemed to work better if I tried to reintroduce a food she had eaten rather recently. Another suggestion, if you do get her to eat it, try giving her some at least once a day. It seems to be that at Ella's age you might have 2 things going on. First, they tend to get extremely routine focused at that age. If they haven't eaten in a few days or weeks, they might forget how it's supposed to look and taste, then they shy away from eating it anymore. The other thing is a NT two year old doesn't eat all that much anyway, so our kids with gut issues and routine focus and overwhelming sensory input is gonna have that much more difficult a time to eat. I've also heard some people with autism say, as an example, if you are eating a taco and you give her chicken nuggets, the smell of the taco might be so strong she's too sick to eat the chicken nuggets. I liken it to taking the worst odor of the world to me (dead animal) and trying to eat a cheeseburger with that odor right next to me. I wouldn't be able to do it, and that's how many of our kids feel. You might try keeping a food diary of what family was eating and her behavior. You might find noise like a television might be too distracting or your might find noise might help her relax. Some with autism have said they have to concentrate so hard on chewing because if they don't they accidently bite their tongues and cheeks because of lack of body awareness. On the other hand, she might need external sensory input from noise and such to help calm her anxiety or overwhelming feelings. A diary noting what was going on at meal and her behavior might help you figure some of her triggers. She might do better eating before/after everyone else or in a different location. It hurts my heart that Allie doesn't eat with us, but when I think about some of these things potentially bothering her, I'd rather her eat somewhere else if she's gonna be able to eat better. HTH, Debi Autism_in_Girls-subscribe ------------------------ Autism_in_Girls-unsubscribe Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 22, 2005 Report Share Posted July 22, 2005 Kirkman's makes a plain calcium powder, but I would suggest trying to find a 50/50 cal/mag mix, the body needs magnesium to absorb the calcium. Allie also only eats one food for a meal. She will eat *either* fries or meat sticks, but definitely not fries *and* meat sticks, lol. But I think I saw her eating some chicken nuggets and some chips, so maybe there is hope. I remember my brother, who I'm almost now certain is on spectrum, going through a phase where he would eat all of one portion of a food, then turn his plate to where the next pile of food was right in front of him, then continue to turn the plate until every food was gone, only eating that food, then drinking an entire glass of milk at the very end. My parents used to get so mad at him for eating that way, but he would do this night after night after night. Doesn't sound spectrumish at all, lol. Debi Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 22, 2005 Report Share Posted July 22, 2005 Kirkman's makes a plain calcium powder, but I would suggest trying to find a 50/50 cal/mag mix, the body needs magnesium to absorb the calcium. Allie also only eats one food for a meal. She will eat *either* fries or meat sticks, but definitely not fries *and* meat sticks, lol. But I think I saw her eating some chicken nuggets and some chips, so maybe there is hope. I remember my brother, who I'm almost now certain is on spectrum, going through a phase where he would eat all of one portion of a food, then turn his plate to where the next pile of food was right in front of him, then continue to turn the plate until every food was gone, only eating that food, then drinking an entire glass of milk at the very end. My parents used to get so mad at him for eating that way, but he would do this night after night after night. Doesn't sound spectrumish at all, lol. Debi Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 22, 2005 Report Share Posted July 22, 2005 Kirkman's makes a plain calcium powder, but I would suggest trying to find a 50/50 cal/mag mix, the body needs magnesium to absorb the calcium. Allie also only eats one food for a meal. She will eat *either* fries or meat sticks, but definitely not fries *and* meat sticks, lol. But I think I saw her eating some chicken nuggets and some chips, so maybe there is hope. I remember my brother, who I'm almost now certain is on spectrum, going through a phase where he would eat all of one portion of a food, then turn his plate to where the next pile of food was right in front of him, then continue to turn the plate until every food was gone, only eating that food, then drinking an entire glass of milk at the very end. My parents used to get so mad at him for eating that way, but he would do this night after night after night. Doesn't sound spectrumish at all, lol. Debi Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 22, 2005 Report Share Posted July 22, 2005 My brother, who definitely has some SPD issues, would not eat foods that were touching at all, and my sister, who also had SPD issues, could not eat if other people were scraping their forks on their plates of teeth... Amnesty > Kirkman's makes a plain calcium powder, but I would suggest trying to > find a 50/50 cal/mag mix, the body needs magnesium to absorb the calcium. > > Allie also only eats one food for a meal. She will eat *either* fries > or meat sticks, but definitely not fries *and* meat sticks, lol. But I > think I saw her eating some chicken nuggets and some chips, so maybe > there is hope. I remember my brother, who I'm almost now certain is on > spectrum, going through a phase where he would eat all of one portion > of a food, then turn his plate to where the next pile of food was > right in front of him, then continue to turn the plate until every > food was gone, only eating that food, then drinking an entire glass of > milk at the very end. My parents used to get so mad at him for eating > that way, but he would do this night after night after night. Doesn't > sound spectrumish at all, lol. > > Debi Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 24, 2005 Report Share Posted July 24, 2005 Ella cant drink soy, and wont drink rice milk...what have you heard about almond milk...Ella seems to tolerate it well! Aimee Amnesty wrote: Most milk subs have calcium added to them. My son is allergic to milk, drinks rice or soy, and get plenty of calcuim from them and many cereals etc that he eats. Amnesty > Just hang in there, Allie is VERY picky, too. she went for over 6 mos > on nothing but chips & fries, and I mean NOTHING ELSE. She was living > proof that yes kids can survive, but I sure wouldn't wanna see other > kids try it. I've found since I've backed off Allie is more likely to > try new things. I have heard people with autism say all sorts of > things, like the odors overwhelm them to the textures make them want > to vomit, to colors being too bright to look at, much less eat. > > one thing that seemed to work with Allie is I'd set her in front of > some of her fav shows, like Sesame Street. Then I'd put a little bit > of a type of food that she used to eat, like a chicken nugget, as an > example. What I would find is if I waited until she was so engrossed > in her show, she'd lose focus on the eating and pick it up and eat it. > I don't know if she didn't feel the anxiety as much, or perhaps the > focus on the visual distraction shut down overacting taste > buds/smelling sense. It seemed to work better if I tried to > reintroduce a food she had eaten rather recently. > > Another suggestion, if you do get her to eat it, try giving her some > at least once a day. It seems to be that at Ella's age you might have > 2 things going on. First, they tend to get extremely routine focused > at that age. If they haven't eaten in a few days or weeks, they might > forget how it's supposed to look and taste, then they shy away from > eating it anymore. The other thing is a NT two year old doesn't eat > all that much anyway, so our kids with gut issues and routine focus > and overwhelming sensory input is gonna have that much more difficult > a time to eat. > > I've also heard some people with autism say, as an example, if you are > eating a taco and you give her chicken nuggets, the smell of the taco > might be so strong she's too sick to eat the chicken nuggets. I liken > it to taking the worst odor of the world to me (dead animal) and > trying to eat a cheeseburger with that odor right next to me. I > wouldn't be able to do it, and that's how many of our kids feel. > > You might try keeping a food diary of what family was eating and her > behavior. You might find noise like a television might be too > distracting or your might find noise might help her relax. Some with > autism have said they have to concentrate so hard on chewing because > if they don't they accidently bite their tongues and cheeks because of > lack of body awareness. On the other hand, she might need external > sensory input from noise and such to help calm her anxiety or > overwhelming feelings. A diary noting what was going on at meal and > her behavior might help you figure some of her triggers. She might do > better eating before/after everyone else or in a different location. > It hurts my heart that Allie doesn't eat with us, but when I think > about some of these things potentially bothering her, I'd rather her > eat somewhere else if she's gonna be able to eat better. > > HTH, > Debi > > > > > > > > Autism_in_Girls-subscribe > ------------------------ > Autism_in_Girls-unsubscribe > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 24, 2005 Report Share Posted July 24, 2005 Ella cant drink soy, and wont drink rice milk...what have you heard about almond milk...Ella seems to tolerate it well! Aimee Amnesty wrote: Most milk subs have calcium added to them. My son is allergic to milk, drinks rice or soy, and get plenty of calcuim from them and many cereals etc that he eats. Amnesty > Just hang in there, Allie is VERY picky, too. she went for over 6 mos > on nothing but chips & fries, and I mean NOTHING ELSE. She was living > proof that yes kids can survive, but I sure wouldn't wanna see other > kids try it. I've found since I've backed off Allie is more likely to > try new things. I have heard people with autism say all sorts of > things, like the odors overwhelm them to the textures make them want > to vomit, to colors being too bright to look at, much less eat. > > one thing that seemed to work with Allie is I'd set her in front of > some of her fav shows, like Sesame Street. Then I'd put a little bit > of a type of food that she used to eat, like a chicken nugget, as an > example. What I would find is if I waited until she was so engrossed > in her show, she'd lose focus on the eating and pick it up and eat it. > I don't know if she didn't feel the anxiety as much, or perhaps the > focus on the visual distraction shut down overacting taste > buds/smelling sense. It seemed to work better if I tried to > reintroduce a food she had eaten rather recently. > > Another suggestion, if you do get her to eat it, try giving her some > at least once a day. It seems to be that at Ella's age you might have > 2 things going on. First, they tend to get extremely routine focused > at that age. If they haven't eaten in a few days or weeks, they might > forget how it's supposed to look and taste, then they shy away from > eating it anymore. The other thing is a NT two year old doesn't eat > all that much anyway, so our kids with gut issues and routine focus > and overwhelming sensory input is gonna have that much more difficult > a time to eat. > > I've also heard some people with autism say, as an example, if you are > eating a taco and you give her chicken nuggets, the smell of the taco > might be so strong she's too sick to eat the chicken nuggets. I liken > it to taking the worst odor of the world to me (dead animal) and > trying to eat a cheeseburger with that odor right next to me. I > wouldn't be able to do it, and that's how many of our kids feel. > > You might try keeping a food diary of what family was eating and her > behavior. You might find noise like a television might be too > distracting or your might find noise might help her relax. Some with > autism have said they have to concentrate so hard on chewing because > if they don't they accidently bite their tongues and cheeks because of > lack of body awareness. On the other hand, she might need external > sensory input from noise and such to help calm her anxiety or > overwhelming feelings. A diary noting what was going on at meal and > her behavior might help you figure some of her triggers. She might do > better eating before/after everyone else or in a different location. > It hurts my heart that Allie doesn't eat with us, but when I think > about some of these things potentially bothering her, I'd rather her > eat somewhere else if she's gonna be able to eat better. > > HTH, > Debi > > > > > > > > Autism_in_Girls-subscribe > ------------------------ > Autism_in_Girls-unsubscribe > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 24, 2005 Report Share Posted July 24, 2005 Ella cant drink soy, and wont drink rice milk...what have you heard about almond milk...Ella seems to tolerate it well! Aimee Amnesty wrote: Most milk subs have calcium added to them. My son is allergic to milk, drinks rice or soy, and get plenty of calcuim from them and many cereals etc that he eats. Amnesty > Just hang in there, Allie is VERY picky, too. she went for over 6 mos > on nothing but chips & fries, and I mean NOTHING ELSE. She was living > proof that yes kids can survive, but I sure wouldn't wanna see other > kids try it. I've found since I've backed off Allie is more likely to > try new things. I have heard people with autism say all sorts of > things, like the odors overwhelm them to the textures make them want > to vomit, to colors being too bright to look at, much less eat. > > one thing that seemed to work with Allie is I'd set her in front of > some of her fav shows, like Sesame Street. Then I'd put a little bit > of a type of food that she used to eat, like a chicken nugget, as an > example. What I would find is if I waited until she was so engrossed > in her show, she'd lose focus on the eating and pick it up and eat it. > I don't know if she didn't feel the anxiety as much, or perhaps the > focus on the visual distraction shut down overacting taste > buds/smelling sense. It seemed to work better if I tried to > reintroduce a food she had eaten rather recently. > > Another suggestion, if you do get her to eat it, try giving her some > at least once a day. It seems to be that at Ella's age you might have > 2 things going on. First, they tend to get extremely routine focused > at that age. If they haven't eaten in a few days or weeks, they might > forget how it's supposed to look and taste, then they shy away from > eating it anymore. The other thing is a NT two year old doesn't eat > all that much anyway, so our kids with gut issues and routine focus > and overwhelming sensory input is gonna have that much more difficult > a time to eat. > > I've also heard some people with autism say, as an example, if you are > eating a taco and you give her chicken nuggets, the smell of the taco > might be so strong she's too sick to eat the chicken nuggets. I liken > it to taking the worst odor of the world to me (dead animal) and > trying to eat a cheeseburger with that odor right next to me. I > wouldn't be able to do it, and that's how many of our kids feel. > > You might try keeping a food diary of what family was eating and her > behavior. You might find noise like a television might be too > distracting or your might find noise might help her relax. Some with > autism have said they have to concentrate so hard on chewing because > if they don't they accidently bite their tongues and cheeks because of > lack of body awareness. On the other hand, she might need external > sensory input from noise and such to help calm her anxiety or > overwhelming feelings. A diary noting what was going on at meal and > her behavior might help you figure some of her triggers. She might do > better eating before/after everyone else or in a different location. > It hurts my heart that Allie doesn't eat with us, but when I think > about some of these things potentially bothering her, I'd rather her > eat somewhere else if she's gonna be able to eat better. > > HTH, > Debi > > > > > > > > Autism_in_Girls-subscribe > ------------------------ > Autism_in_Girls-unsubscribe > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 24, 2005 Report Share Posted July 24, 2005 We haven't tried it, with Rory's allergies we are supposed to avoid nuts, but I think it's still calcium fortified. Better protien than rice too. Usually it says on the box if it is or not, if the one you're using isn't, check some other brands. Amnesty > > Just hang in there, Allie is VERY picky, too. she went for over 6 > mos > > on nothing but chips & fries, and I mean NOTHING ELSE. She was > living > > proof that yes kids can survive, but I sure wouldn't wanna see other > > kids try it. I've found since I've backed off Allie is more likely > to > > try new things. I have heard people with autism say all sorts of > > things, like the odors overwhelm them to the textures make them want > > to vomit, to colors being too bright to look at, much less eat. > > > > one thing that seemed to work with Allie is I'd set her in front of > > some of her fav shows, like Sesame Street. Then I'd put a little bit > > of a type of food that she used to eat, like a chicken nugget, as an > > example. What I would find is if I waited until she was so engrossed > > in her show, she'd lose focus on the eating and pick it up and eat > it. > > I don't know if she didn't feel the anxiety as much, or perhaps the > > focus on the visual distraction shut down overacting taste > > buds/smelling sense. It seemed to work better if I tried to > > reintroduce a food she had eaten rather recently. > > > > Another suggestion, if you do get her to eat it, try giving her some > > at least once a day. It seems to be that at Ella's age you might > have > > 2 things going on. First, they tend to get extremely routine focused > > at that age. If they haven't eaten in a few days or weeks, they > might > > forget how it's supposed to look and taste, then they shy away from > > eating it anymore. The other thing is a NT two year old doesn't eat > > all that much anyway, so our kids with gut issues and routine focus > > and overwhelming sensory input is gonna have that much more > difficult > > a time to eat. > > > > I've also heard some people with autism say, as an example, if you > are > > eating a taco and you give her chicken nuggets, the smell of the > taco > > might be so strong she's too sick to eat the chicken nuggets. I > liken > > it to taking the worst odor of the world to me (dead animal) and > > trying to eat a cheeseburger with that odor right next to me. I > > wouldn't be able to do it, and that's how many of our kids feel. > > > > You might try keeping a food diary of what family was eating and her > > behavior. You might find noise like a television might be too > > distracting or your might find noise might help her relax. Some with > > autism have said they have to concentrate so hard on chewing because > > if they don't they accidently bite their tongues and cheeks because > of > > lack of body awareness. On the other hand, she might need external > > sensory input from noise and such to help calm her anxiety or > > overwhelming feelings. A diary noting what was going on at meal and > > her behavior might help you figure some of her triggers. She might > do > > better eating before/after everyone else or in a different location. > > It hurts my heart that Allie doesn't eat with us, but when I think > > about some of these things potentially bothering her, I'd rather her > > eat somewhere else if she's gonna be able to eat better. > > > > HTH, > > Debi > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Autism_in_Girls-subscribe > > ------------------------ > > Autism_in_Girls-unsubscribe > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 24, 2005 Report Share Posted July 24, 2005 We haven't tried it, with Rory's allergies we are supposed to avoid nuts, but I think it's still calcium fortified. Better protien than rice too. Usually it says on the box if it is or not, if the one you're using isn't, check some other brands. Amnesty > > Just hang in there, Allie is VERY picky, too. she went for over 6 > mos > > on nothing but chips & fries, and I mean NOTHING ELSE. She was > living > > proof that yes kids can survive, but I sure wouldn't wanna see other > > kids try it. I've found since I've backed off Allie is more likely > to > > try new things. I have heard people with autism say all sorts of > > things, like the odors overwhelm them to the textures make them want > > to vomit, to colors being too bright to look at, much less eat. > > > > one thing that seemed to work with Allie is I'd set her in front of > > some of her fav shows, like Sesame Street. Then I'd put a little bit > > of a type of food that she used to eat, like a chicken nugget, as an > > example. What I would find is if I waited until she was so engrossed > > in her show, she'd lose focus on the eating and pick it up and eat > it. > > I don't know if she didn't feel the anxiety as much, or perhaps the > > focus on the visual distraction shut down overacting taste > > buds/smelling sense. It seemed to work better if I tried to > > reintroduce a food she had eaten rather recently. > > > > Another suggestion, if you do get her to eat it, try giving her some > > at least once a day. It seems to be that at Ella's age you might > have > > 2 things going on. First, they tend to get extremely routine focused > > at that age. If they haven't eaten in a few days or weeks, they > might > > forget how it's supposed to look and taste, then they shy away from > > eating it anymore. The other thing is a NT two year old doesn't eat > > all that much anyway, so our kids with gut issues and routine focus > > and overwhelming sensory input is gonna have that much more > difficult > > a time to eat. > > > > I've also heard some people with autism say, as an example, if you > are > > eating a taco and you give her chicken nuggets, the smell of the > taco > > might be so strong she's too sick to eat the chicken nuggets. I > liken > > it to taking the worst odor of the world to me (dead animal) and > > trying to eat a cheeseburger with that odor right next to me. I > > wouldn't be able to do it, and that's how many of our kids feel. > > > > You might try keeping a food diary of what family was eating and her > > behavior. You might find noise like a television might be too > > distracting or your might find noise might help her relax. Some with > > autism have said they have to concentrate so hard on chewing because > > if they don't they accidently bite their tongues and cheeks because > of > > lack of body awareness. On the other hand, she might need external > > sensory input from noise and such to help calm her anxiety or > > overwhelming feelings. A diary noting what was going on at meal and > > her behavior might help you figure some of her triggers. She might > do > > better eating before/after everyone else or in a different location. > > It hurts my heart that Allie doesn't eat with us, but when I think > > about some of these things potentially bothering her, I'd rather her > > eat somewhere else if she's gonna be able to eat better. > > > > HTH, > > Debi > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Autism_in_Girls-subscribe > > ------------------------ > > Autism_in_Girls-unsubscribe > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 24, 2005 Report Share Posted July 24, 2005 We haven't tried it, with Rory's allergies we are supposed to avoid nuts, but I think it's still calcium fortified. Better protien than rice too. Usually it says on the box if it is or not, if the one you're using isn't, check some other brands. Amnesty > > Just hang in there, Allie is VERY picky, too. she went for over 6 > mos > > on nothing but chips & fries, and I mean NOTHING ELSE. She was > living > > proof that yes kids can survive, but I sure wouldn't wanna see other > > kids try it. I've found since I've backed off Allie is more likely > to > > try new things. I have heard people with autism say all sorts of > > things, like the odors overwhelm them to the textures make them want > > to vomit, to colors being too bright to look at, much less eat. > > > > one thing that seemed to work with Allie is I'd set her in front of > > some of her fav shows, like Sesame Street. Then I'd put a little bit > > of a type of food that she used to eat, like a chicken nugget, as an > > example. What I would find is if I waited until she was so engrossed > > in her show, she'd lose focus on the eating and pick it up and eat > it. > > I don't know if she didn't feel the anxiety as much, or perhaps the > > focus on the visual distraction shut down overacting taste > > buds/smelling sense. It seemed to work better if I tried to > > reintroduce a food she had eaten rather recently. > > > > Another suggestion, if you do get her to eat it, try giving her some > > at least once a day. It seems to be that at Ella's age you might > have > > 2 things going on. First, they tend to get extremely routine focused > > at that age. If they haven't eaten in a few days or weeks, they > might > > forget how it's supposed to look and taste, then they shy away from > > eating it anymore. The other thing is a NT two year old doesn't eat > > all that much anyway, so our kids with gut issues and routine focus > > and overwhelming sensory input is gonna have that much more > difficult > > a time to eat. > > > > I've also heard some people with autism say, as an example, if you > are > > eating a taco and you give her chicken nuggets, the smell of the > taco > > might be so strong she's too sick to eat the chicken nuggets. I > liken > > it to taking the worst odor of the world to me (dead animal) and > > trying to eat a cheeseburger with that odor right next to me. I > > wouldn't be able to do it, and that's how many of our kids feel. > > > > You might try keeping a food diary of what family was eating and her > > behavior. You might find noise like a television might be too > > distracting or your might find noise might help her relax. Some with > > autism have said they have to concentrate so hard on chewing because > > if they don't they accidently bite their tongues and cheeks because > of > > lack of body awareness. On the other hand, she might need external > > sensory input from noise and such to help calm her anxiety or > > overwhelming feelings. A diary noting what was going on at meal and > > her behavior might help you figure some of her triggers. She might > do > > better eating before/after everyone else or in a different location. > > It hurts my heart that Allie doesn't eat with us, but when I think > > about some of these things potentially bothering her, I'd rather her > > eat somewhere else if she's gonna be able to eat better. > > > > HTH, > > Debi > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Autism_in_Girls-subscribe > > ------------------------ > > Autism_in_Girls-unsubscribe > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 24, 2005 Report Share Posted July 24, 2005 Thanks, do you think nuts are ok for ella, she has more intolerences than allergies i think. She does ok with peanutbutter I think, its so hard to know anymore! Aimee Amnesty wrote: We haven't tried it, with Rory's allergies we are supposed to avoid nuts, but I think it's still calcium fortified. Better protien than rice too. Usually it says on the box if it is or not, if the one you're using isn't, check some other brands. Amnesty > > Just hang in there, Allie is VERY picky, too. she went for over 6 > mos > > on nothing but chips & fries, and I mean NOTHING ELSE. She was > living > > proof that yes kids can survive, but I sure wouldn't wanna see other > > kids try it. I've found since I've backed off Allie is more likely > to > > try new things. I have heard people with autism say all sorts of > > things, like the odors overwhelm them to the textures make them want > > to vomit, to colors being too bright to look at, much less eat. > > > > one thing that seemed to work with Allie is I'd set her in front of > > some of her fav shows, like Sesame Street. Then I'd put a little bit > > of a type of food that she used to eat, like a chicken nugget, as an > > example. What I would find is if I waited until she was so engrossed > > in her show, she'd lose focus on the eating and pick it up and eat > it. > > I don't know if she didn't feel the anxiety as much, or perhaps the > > focus on the visual distraction shut down overacting taste > > buds/smelling sense. It seemed to work better if I tried to > > reintroduce a food she had eaten rather recently. > > > > Another suggestion, if you do get her to eat it, try giving her some > > at least once a day. It seems to be that at Ella's age you might > have > > 2 things going on. First, they tend to get extremely routine focused > > at that age. If they haven't eaten in a few days or weeks, they > might > > forget how it's supposed to look and taste, then they shy away from > > eating it anymore. The other thing is a NT two year old doesn't eat > > all that much anyway, so our kids with gut issues and routine focus > > and overwhelming sensory input is gonna have that much more > difficult > > a time to eat. > > > > I've also heard some people with autism say, as an example, if you > are > > eating a taco and you give her chicken nuggets, the smell of the > taco > > might be so strong she's too sick to eat the chicken nuggets. I > liken > > it to taking the worst odor of the world to me (dead animal) and > > trying to eat a cheeseburger with that odor right next to me. I > > wouldn't be able to do it, and that's how many of our kids feel. > > > > You might try keeping a food diary of what family was eating and her > > behavior. You might find noise like a television might be too > > distracting or your might find noise might help her relax. Some with > > autism have said they have to concentrate so hard on chewing because > > if they don't they accidently bite their tongues and cheeks because > of > > lack of body awareness. On the other hand, she might need external > > sensory input from noise and such to help calm her anxiety or > > overwhelming feelings. A diary noting what was going on at meal and > > her behavior might help you figure some of her triggers. She might > do > > better eating before/after everyone else or in a different location. > > It hurts my heart that Allie doesn't eat with us, but when I think > > about some of these things potentially bothering her, I'd rather her > > eat somewhere else if she's gonna be able to eat better. > > > > HTH, > > Debi > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Autism_in_Girls-subscribe > > ------------------------ > > Autism_in_Girls-unsubscribe > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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