Berry Patch
Research indicates that fresh veggies and fresh fruits impact both our long-term and short-term health. The trick is inserting these healthy foods into the daily diets of individuals with autism who are resistant to new foods. One technique that has worked for some folks is visiting “pick-your-own” orchards, berry patches, and gardens.
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People of all ages and levels of ability can enjoy the outing. In most cases, even the most selective eaters are eager to take a taste of fresh produce they plucked out of the garden with their own hands.
If a person sees some of his own hand-picked fruits and vegetables being added to foods, he might be more willing to take a bite. Even a little bit of fresh fruit and vegetable every day is an improvement over zero intake.
Summer and fall are perfect times for a drive into the country to find commercial farms and orchards that allow people to hand-pick fruits and vegetables. You might also know friends with home gardens who would allow your friend with autism to come pick some home-grown goodies.
Depending on fruits grown in your area, you might be able to pick peaches, nectarines, apples, strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, oranges, mangos, or papayas. Some individuals with autism may prefer to eat berries and hand-picked fruits fresh rather than having their treasures disguised in cobblers or pies.
Country gardens or farms sometimes allow picking squash, okra, green beans, tomatoes, and other vegetables. And, of course, nothing tops off a hot summer day better than slicing into a watermelon picked fresh from the field.
So, load everyone up and head to the orchard or the berry patch or the country garden and enjoy!
We welcome your input. Share challenges and ideas based on your experiences or intuition. Just click on the comments button or send an e-mail to talk@FAQautism.com.
NOTE TO READERS AND LISTENERS: I am Cathy Knoll, a board certified music therapist and long-time friend of many folks with autism. At FAQautism.com we are committed to providing free, practical, everyday tips for making life better for people with autism. Feel free to send me an email with your thoughts or challenging situations or innovative solution. Send email to talk@FAQautism.com And don’t forget to check out our website for a wealth of ideas and a glimpse into the world of autism. http://FAQautism.com
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