Background:
Children and adults with Autism and other developmental disabilities have not been specifically targeted for quality nutritional programs that fit their unique needs.
Children with Autism are vulnerable to all of the factors that place other children at nutritional risk, and to a myriad of additional biological, environmental, and psychosocial variables that further jeopardize their nutritional status and pose barriers to their development. In highlighting the population of Children with Special Needs, The American Dietetic Association reaffirms its position that all children should have access to adequate nutrition services.
The American Dietetic Association when addressing nutrition services for Children with Special Needs, recently stated: "Children with special health needs must have the opportunity to achieve their potential in all areas of development". Appropriate nutrition services are a critical aspect of the support required for this to occur.
"It is the position of The American Dietetic Association that nutrition services are an essential component of comprehensive care for children with special health needs. These nutrition services should be provided within a system of coordinated interdisciplinary services in a manner that is preventive, family centered, community based and culturally competent".
Families with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) children are overwhelmed by the varied and unique needs of their children; including educational, behavioral, medical and dietary challenges.
Information is powerful. With nutrition education and food preparation training, Parents and Caregivers are empowered to see themselves as participants, able to improve the health and well-being of children with developmental disabilities with dietary changes.
If we can help alter a developmental disability through diet, we must heed that call!