FAQautism

Parents, teachers, and group home staff are always looking for creative ways to encourage individuals with autism to munch down on healthy snacks. After taking into consideration personal preferences and special dietary restrictions, gather a variety of munchies that have different textures and tastes. Most of my friends with autism particularly enjoy crunchy tidbits and frozen goodies.

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One way to introduce fresh fruits and veggies to the list of snacks is to visit a berry patch, farm, or orchard where you can pick your own produce. You can also give your friend with autism $10 to shop for his own snacks with the stipulation that any choices pass the “Healthy Test.”

Here are some ideas that have really hit home with some of my friends with autism. Remember to consider individual preferences and dietary restrictions.
FROZEN TREATS. Frozen grapes, fruit smoothies, frozen fruit juices in paper cups with a popcicle stick, frozen yogurt, frozen strawberries, sliced fresh peaches with sugar-free ice cream, fresh berries with a bit of sherbet or frozen yogurt, frozen banana slices, or frozen chunks of fresh pineapple. You can freeze many fresh fruits – just pop them in the freezer on a tray, then put them in a zip lock to snacking.
CRUNCHIES. Ramen Noodles, popcorn, corn nuts, chex mix, goldfish crackers, animal crackers, mini-pretzels, roasted and unsalted cashews or almonds, crunchy banana chips, dried veggie chips, whole-grain crackers, mini-carrots with dip, apple slices with peanut butter, miniature seasoned rice cakes, graham crackers, small bites of stuffed celery, low-salt tortilla chips, and other goodies.
SPECIAL TREATS. Watermelon, fresh baked oatmeal raisin cookies, yogurt covered raisins, berries or apples you pick from the field, or apple slices stewed with cinnamon in a bit of water until soft. The possibilities are limitless.

TIP FOR THE DAY. Creative thinking and attentive shopping can reap a rich variety of healthy snacks. Enjoy!

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 a confidential email at talk@FAQautism.com with your thoughts or challenging situations or innovative solution. 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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