This is a collaborative post and doesn’t necessarily reflect the views of this blog or its author.
Did you know that in the US, autism impacts 1 in 50 children and their families? Of course, how seriously these children are affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder will determine how large an impact autism has on their daily lives and the lives of their families. For instance, the Autistic Spectrum exists as a continuum, varying from more mild impairments to more serious disabilities.
Due to these impairments, children and teenagers living with Autism Spectrum Disorder, experience trouble with social functioning, interest in certain activities, and repetitive behaviors. Plus, these restrictions mean that children with ASD prevent a range of challenges when it comes to nutrition and physical activities. However, they still experience the same powerful benefits of a healthy diet and a healthy lifestyle.
Bearing that in mind, below are some useful tips for making it easier to make healthy eating and staying active for a child for teenage with ASD.
Give your child chances to be successful
It’s much simpler to praise a child for exhibiting a positive behaviour rather than scolding them for doing something wrong. That’s why, when it comes to their health, it’s important to set them up to succeed. The way to do this is to make it easier for them to make healthy choices, such as by filling your home with healthy foods, rather than unhealthy ones. As well as by making physical activity the norm for them by always walking everywhere, rather than driving.
Cook smart
One of the best things that you can do to help your child with ASD to lead a healthier life is to cook smart. What does this mean? It means taking steps to cook healthy family meals that are made from scratch and are free of any nasties, like additives or excess sugar. Going organic can also be helpful, as organic foods are healthier again due to the lack of pesticides and other chemicals in them. There are plenty of specialist stores that you can choose to purchase these items from, such as Crimson Goods, for instance, so there’s sure to be plenty of choice in terms of what foods you’re able to get. Whatever meals your child loves, find a way to make them yourself from scratch, using all-natural, organic ingredients.
Keep a consistent daily schedule
Children with autism benefit from having a consistent daily schedule in place. Have a schedule that includes times set for meals, learning, physical activity, and play, and you will find that your child responds much more positively. All children find routines useful, which is why it’s so important that you put a routine in place, especially if you want to make it easier for your child to lead a healthier life, despite their ASD.
Like for any child, healthy living is just as beneficial for children with ASD, it’s just a case of finding smart ways to make it easier to lead a healthier life. Hopefully, the tips and suggestions above will help you to do that, and will make the process of leading a healthier life for your child (and you) slightly easier and less stressful.
