Tempting the Tastebuds
Last week at New Struan School, pupils were sampling new foods from the kitchen.
Introduced this term, the food tasting sessions allow pupils to try some new delights from the kitchen and indicate whether they would like to see it on the school menu. Children with autism can have difficulties around eating. Health and dietary requirements aside, sensory issues can impact on eating in a number of ways. The food’s smell, it’s colour or shape and the way it feels can be all affect whether a child will like or even try a new food. In addition, the environment can affect eating behavior and it is important to know for each individual whether they need a set routine, if they can eat with others and what their preferences are.
At New Struan School, we establish a deep understanding of each individual and work with their preferences whilst trying to encourage pupils to try new foods. On Thursday afternoon, pupils came along and chose food items to sample.
With the help of their support worker, the pupils then indicated whether they ‘liked’ or ‘disliked’ the food and made any other comments. The pasta and the apple strudel proved very popular and will be making an appearance on upcoming menus. Pupils are looking forward to trying some more new foods at the next ‘Food Tasting’ session in two weeks time.
Why not have a look at the school’s weekly menu which is available on the website and updated every Monday!
