Date: 24/02/2021
Some children and young people may feel extremely anxious when asked to try new food, and so it is important to introduce a new item in a very gradual way.
This resource shows the steps involved when familiarising a child or young person with a food item. They should be in control of the process, only moving on to the next step when they feel comfortable and ready. Avoid trying to persuade them to try the food until they are ready to do so.
Please note that some autistic children and young people enjoy eating the same meals and snacks each day, and if they have been assessed to be healthy, it may not be necessary to introduce new food items.