If mealtime has become a daily struggle and your child refuses to try new foods, you’re not alone. Many children, especially those with sensory sensitivities or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), find new foods overwhelming—or even distressing. The good news is that food flexibility is a skill, and like any skill, it can be gently taught with the right approach and a lot of patience.

Children often reject new foods because they’re unfamiliar in taste, texture, color, or even how they’re presented. It’s not just about being “picky”—it’s often about discomfort or anxiety around change. In ABA therapy, we use gradual, positive steps to help children become more comfortable with new foods without pressure or frustration.

Start by setting realistic goals. Trying a new food doesn’t have to mean taking a bite right away. First steps might include letting the food stay on the plate, touching it with a finger, or bringing it to the lips. These small steps build familiarity and reduce fear. Reinforce each step your child takes with praise or a small reward—celebrating progress, not perfection.

Make exposure playful and low-pressure. You can explore foods together during pretend play (like using toy food), food art (arranging fruits or veggies into fun shapes) or cooking simple meals together. The more positive experiences your child has around food, the more open they may become to eventually tasting something new.

Keep in mind that mealtime should feel safe and predictable. Offer a mix of “safe” foods they already like alongside one “learning” food—something new that they’re just getting used to seeing and experiencing.

If your child’s eating is extremely limited or causes nutritional concerns, our ABA team can help. Feeding therapy using behavior-based strategies is often highly effective, and we work with families to make mealtimes less stressful and more successful. Remember, progress may be slow, but every step forward—no matter how small—is worth celebrating.