Thanksgiving is just around the corner. It’s that time of year we gather with family and friends to give thanks, have fun and enjoy good food.
As enjoyable as they can be, holidays, especially the big ones like Thanksgiving, can be overwhelming for many kids. This is especially true for those with autism, ADHD, or other neurodevelopmental differences.
Sensitivities to food textures, tastes, and even smells, can be a major source of anxiety for neurodiverse children at the Thanksgiving dinner table.
In this article Developmental Behavioral Pediatricians Dr. Ayesha Cheema-Hasan and Dr. Angelica Robles, co-founders of Coralis Health and experts in helping children with food sensitivities, provide tips to help reduce holiday stress and anxiety.
Food Sensitivities Are Common In Neurodiverse Children
Food sensitivities are quite common in children with neurodevelopmental conditions, especially autism. It’s not just about allergies, but rather their sensory experiences, such as being hypersensitive to certain textures. For example, foods that are too crunchy, too mushy, or even foods that look a certain way can be very distressing.
It is important to emphasize that these reactions are not simply a child being picky. “For them, it’s a genuine sensory overload, and it can lead to stress or even meltdowns during meals,” says Dr. Robles.
Thanksgiving can be especially challenging, with so many rich, varied, and often unfamiliar foods. “The turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, all the side dishes — it’s a sensory minefield for some of these kids,” says Dr. Cheema-Hasan.
So What Can Parents Do To Help Their Children With Food Sensitivities?
One of the key things to help children with food sensitivities is preparation and planning. If a child has favorites, and loves certain foods, be sure to include those as part of the Thanksgiving meal. Familiar, safe foods will make things more comfortable during the celebration. It is also important not to force a neurodiverse child to eat everything that is on the table.
“Consider giving the child some control over their food choices. If they’re more comfortable eating certain foods, let them focus on that,” explains Dr. Cheema-Hasan, “Thanksgiving is more about the experience and being together, not forcing kids to conform to traditional food choices.”
Dr. Robles agrees, “I also encourage families to think outside the box. If a child loves a certain type of food, incorporate that into the meal. It’s okay to have familiar foods on the Thanksgiving table, if that’s what makes the child feel more comfortable and included.”
Another important tip is to consider incorporating sensory breaks into the Thanksgiving Day plan. Large gatherings can be overwhelming for neurodiverse kids. Setting up a quiet space where they can go if they’re feeling overstimulated, and planning regular breaks, can make a big difference.
“Thanksgiving can already be stressful,” Dr. Robles points out, “but with a little preparation and understanding, we can create an environment that’s inclusive for neurodiverse children and enjoyable for the whole family.”
The Best Traditions Are The Ones That Work For Your Family
Dr. Cheema-Hasan stresses the importance of creating traditions that work specifically for your particular situation and family, “Every family is different, and every child is unique. It’s about finding what works best for your child and embracing that as part of your Thanksgiving tradition.”
We hope that these tips are a helpful addition to your holiday planning, and help make the season a joyful one for the entire family. All of us here at Coralis Health wish you a very happy Thanksgiving, and a holiday season filled with happiness, peace and love.
