Raising an autistic child can present a number of quite unique challenges, in this articles we explore the link between autism and spoon size.

An autistic child and their spoon size

For parents of autistic children, our journey may include unique insights into their child’s behaviors and preferences.

One such behaviour that parents might encounter is their child’s insistence on using a specific spoon size.

While it might seem puzzling at first, this seemingly small preference can hold great significance for your child’s comfort and well-being.

Why the spoon size matters

For an autistic child, the choice of a spoon size can influence their eating experience in several ways.

A specific spoon size may align with their sensory preferences, offering a comfortable and familiar sensation in their hands and mouth.

It can also help create a sense of predictability and control during meals.

This can be soothing for a child who may feel overwhelmed by the unpredictable world around them.

Sensory factors

Autistic children and adults often have heightened sensory perceptions, which means they experience the world around them in a different way.

Everyday sensations that might not bother neurotypical individuals can be overwhelming for someone on the autism spectrum.

The texture, size, and weight of objects can have a profound impact on their sensory experiences.

A child’s mouth is full of sensory receptors and these feelings can be amplified for an autistic child.

This is why autistic children often mouth items or their fingers.

This sensory environment is where the choice of a specific spoon size comes into play.

Fondness of routine

It is well known that autistic individuals often have a strong fondness of routine.

Surprises and unpredictably can cause stress or even lead to meltdowns.

With that in mind a particular spoon may have formed a routine in itself, providing your child the predicability he or she craves.

What can parents do?

A child insisting on a particular spoon size can lead to a number of potential issues.

For example if Mom or Dad is trying to give them a meal outside of their normal routine, the particular spoon size may not be available.

Here are some ideas and tips to consider;

Period of observation

Start by observing your child’s behaviours and reactions during mealtime.

Take note of their comfort level with different spoon sizes and textures.

This can give you valuable insights into their sensory preferences.

Experiment with different types of spoons just on the table or tray in front of your child.

You can see if they gravitate towards another one as well as their usual.

Look for distinguishing features relating to the preferred spoon such as the weight, shape and texture.

Gradual exposure

If you notice your child is open to trying new things, gently introduce different spoon sizes over time.

Following the period of observation try to source spoons which are similar as the preferred option but slightly different.

It could be for example that the new spoon is slightly heavier or just has a slightly thinner material.

You can try to ease your child away from their rigid mindset, one small change at a time.

Allow them some choice

If an autistic child is given a form of control in their environment this can help break routines.

Allow you child to choose a new spoon in a store or online, then let them handle and get comfortable with it.

When this spoon is then presented at mealtimes it will not be a surprise and they will be accustomed to it.

Naturally you won’t want to turn this spoon into the only one they will use either, but you could alternate between the new and old preference.

Create a calm environment

If your child is being bombarded by sensory input during a mealtime they may default to their preferred spoon choice out of necessity.

Look to minimise distractions and sensory triggers during mealtime.

This can create a calm and focused atmosphere that allows your child to enjoy their food without unnecessary stress.

Communicate

Depending on your child’s communication abilities, encourage them to express their feelings about the spoon size.

This can help you better understand their perspective and find ways to make mealtime more comfortable for them.

It may be for example that they can communicate that bigger spoons feel uncomfortable in their mouth.

If that is the case then at least you are a step closer to moving away from reliance.

Bring in the professionals

If you’re concerned about your child’s sensory sensitivities or behaviours, consider consulting with experts.

These could be a pediatric occupational therapist or a healthcare professional experienced in working with autistic children.

They can provide tailored advice and strategies to support your child’s needs.

Respect their choice

Sometimes as parents we feel like we simply have to take action in order to break habits of our autistic children.

But one readily available option is to just do nothing and allow them to carry on using the same spoon.

You might want to try and purchase some replicas so that you can have one to hand at all times.

But sometimes the juice isn’t worth the squeeze and putting your child and yourself through undue stress over a spoon isn’t always worth it.

Habits and behaviours come and go with autistic children, it may well be that over time they just stop the reliance on one spoon.

Summary – Autism and spoon size

Raising a child with autism requires patience, understanding, and a willingness to adapt.

A seemingly small detail like the choice of a spoon size can hold great significance for your child’s sensory experiences.

By respecting their preferences and finding ways to create a comfortable mealtime environment, you can support your child effectively.

Remember, your efforts to understand and accommodate their needs will go a long way in nurturing your parent-child relationship.