Getting ready to introduce tooth-friendly foods and drinks
Overview
Getting ready to introduce tooth-friendly foods and drinks involves more than just preparing meals. It’s about establishing a routine, creating a suitable eating environment, and ensuring your child is physically and emotionally prepared for mealtimes. A key part of this process is co-regulation, where the people around your child help them feel safe, calm, and comfortable.​
Preparing your child for tooth-friendly foods and drinks
Setting up a consistent mealtime routine can help autistic children feel more secure and understand what to expect. This includes regular meal times and a calming pre-meal routine that minimises distractions. Consistent routines bring stability and predictability, both of which are essential for children to feel ready to eat. ​
Preparing the eating environment
​​The environment where your child eats plays a big role in how comfortable they feel during mealtimes. A well-prepared space can help manage sensory sensitivities, reduce anxiety, and support the development of oral-motor skills needed for chewing and swallowing. This section focuses on the physical setup, including where your child eats and their seating posture.
Preparing the social environment
The people around your child during meals are just as important as the physical setting. The way others communicate, their sense of calm, and their approach to food all influence how safe and comfortable your child feels. Using positive language and role modelling can help children co-regulate and feel more secure around food.
