Asperger's and Eating Problems

iVillage Member
Registered: 10-15-2004
Asperger's and Eating Problems
4
Thu, 06-22-2006 - 3:03pm

Hi, I am new to this board. I have a very bright 7yo son with Asperger's. Part of his problems is a very sensative mouth. He still does not know how to chew solid food. I have gone through several different therapies, but I can't seem to find the help he needs where I live (central California).

I've been trying to do research on the web, but I am having trouble finding anything. I was wondering if anyone here might know of a good program that I could take my son to. I am to the point where I will move to where ever I need to in order for him to get the help that he needs. I just don't know where to go. So if any of you know of anyplace that you could recommend me taking a look at, I would really appreciate it.

Thank you for your time.

Beth

iVillage Member
Registered: 04-08-2003
Thu, 06-22-2006 - 4:49pm

Beth,
My son is 9 yrs old. When he was 7 yrs, I had only a handful of foods that I could feed because he choked on most of them. Not until last year, he could put a burger (veggie) inside a bun and eat it. Till today, he still will not eat with lettuce and tomotoes in it. We had no fruits on the list until the OT, a great lady, worked with him one fruit at a time. Last weekend when we were at a pool party, ,Sravan ate 9 strawberries and my comment was that he must be my adopted son. Keep working one new thing a week and there is light at the end of the tunnel.

take care,
Anandhi

Avatar for insideout418
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-25-2003
Thu, 06-22-2006 - 10:49pm

Hi Beth and welcome to the board.


It sure sounds like he has some major sensory issues concerning his mouth.

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iVillage Member
Registered: 03-26-2003
Fri, 06-23-2006 - 11:07am

Hi Beth and welcome here! I agree.....your son's issues do sound like something that an OT who specializes in sensory/eatting issues could help you with. Sorry I am not from CA.....so I do not have anyone specific to refer you to. I would ask your pediatrician if there are any such OTs in your area......maybe the local autism society could help? Just some thoughts.....

Good luck,
Christie

iVillage Member
Registered: 06-25-2003
Fri, 06-23-2006 - 7:10pm

Beth,


Is it a case of he *won't* chew food, or he actually *can't* chew?. If the latter, you do need some professional help.

-Paula

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