In today's episode, Brittyn interviews Melanie Potock, CCC-SLP to discuss how to support children and families as part of an interdisciplinary care feeding team for children on the autism spectrum. Kids with ASD are more likely to be picky eaters and are less likely to emerge out of the "picky eating stage" as young children. Together we explore the most common reasons why children on the spectrum are picky eaters and why the "Starve It Out" Method can cause more harm than good.

IN THIS EPISODE

• The importance of having a cohesive, interdisciplinary care team for children with feeding difficulties

• Identifying the most important members in a care team: the child and the parent.

• The issues with the term "picky eating" and how this presents challenges around getting support with feeding issues

• Why children on the autism spectrum are less likely to emerge out of the "picky eating stage" as young children.

• Why the "Starve It Out Method" may not be worth the risk for children on the autism spectrum

• What are the three blocks of the "Stacking Model" that impact picky eating for children and why they may be experiencing feeding difficulties

• The impact of Sensory Processing Disorder in picky eating and how this can affect hunger cues and food preferences

• The importance of considering the whole child instead of just the growth chart

LINKS

• Follow Melanie on Instagram at @mymunchbug_melaniepotock

• Check out Melanie's website and free resources at https://mymunchbug.com/

• Join the Autism Nutrition Library

• Follow @AutismDietitian on Instagram