Food for Thoughtt : April is Autism Awareness Month .

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD.org ) and  autism are  both general  terms  for  a group  of  complex disorders in brain  developement . These  disorders are  characterized  in varing  degrees  by  difficulties  in social  interaction , verbal and  nonverbal communication  and  repetitive  behaviors .
If  you have  a child  with ASD  you know  that many  aspects  of  caring  for for the child  can be  difficult , including  meal time . Here  are  a few  tips  to  help  you when caring  for the nutritional needs  of  a child  with special  needs  :

1 . Create routine  with meals :
Remember  the  sights and sounds  of  preparing  a meal  can be  stressful  for  your child . You may need to dim  the  lights  for  mealtime  and  make sure  the television  and  radio is  turned  off . Let  your  child choose  their  seat  or  pick out  a favorite  food. 

2 . If  your  child  has sensory issues : 
It  may be  helpful  to allow them  to play with their food  . Becoming  more  familiar  with the food  can help .  This  can get a little  messy ,  so put  down a  a towel or  sheet to make  cleanup  easier .

3. Be prepared  for  picky  eaters :
It can be difficult  to feed  children  with sensitivity to  tastes , colors,  smells  and textures . Let your  child be involved in every step of  the  meal process , from picking  out  the  food  at the  store  to preparing it  and  deciding if  he  wants  to eat it . don't  be  discouraged  if  a  child  dose not want  to eat  a new food . Keep  a  low-pressure  and low-stress environment .

4 . Discuss  your child's  growth  patterns with  your pediatrician :
This is important for  all  children  not  just those with special needs . Your  pediatrician should  be  able  to let you know how your child is  growing  and if  there  are  any  particular  concerns . 
Ask  for  a  referral  to see   dietican if  you are  having  trouble  with meals  and  feeding.  

Words of Wisdom :
Our greatest glory is not in never failing, but in rising up every time we fail.

Knowledge is power. Information is liberating. Education is the premise of progress, in every society, in every family.

If a country is to be corruption free and become a nation of beautiful minds, I strongly feel there are three key societal members who can make a difference. They are the father, the mother and the teacher.

It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership.

A home with a loving and loyal husband and wife is the supreme setting in which children can be reared in love and righteousness and in which the spiritual and physical needs of children can be met.

A proud  grand-poppa       G.