Raising a child with autism can be a huge challenge. Those who suffer from autism will struggle with their cognitive development and learning can be a difficult spot for them to overcome.
As a parent, you might want to set your child up at an autism specific school or you can find homeschooling options of you would rather teach them yourself. Those with autism can struggle and will need extra support for their learning and development.
Something you may not know is that you can help your child and their mind by feeding them foods that promote cognitive function. This can be a great way to activate their minds and help them to be healthier and happier in life. As such, we have a few different foods and recipes to help your autistic child feel healthier and happier this year.
Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds are great for the body and they can be used in many dishes to add essential nutrients that stimulate learning. This simple berry smoothie is an easy breakfast option for your child and one that will fuel them for the morning.
Flaxseed and berry smoothie
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp flaxseeds
- 200g frozen berries
- 1 tbsp yogurt
- 1 banana
- 100ml pomegranate juice
- Blend all of your ingredients until smooth.
- Taste and add some honey for sweetness if needed.
Salmon
Salmon is a superfood, and when it comes to cognitive function salmon can bring a lot to the table. Full of healthy fats and omega 3 and 6, this is the ideal food to feed your autistic child to help them learn.
Simple salmon fish cakes
Ingredients:
- 1 fillet salmon, cooked
- 1 potato
- 1 tsp chives
- 1 tsp parsley
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 beaten egg
- 100g golden breadcrumbs
- Poke some holes into your potato and then add to a microwave for 10 minutes. Once done, leave to cool and then mash.
- Add the salmon to your potato along with your herbs and seasoning.
- Form your mixture into patties and then cover with beaten egg, before dipping in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Fry in oil for 2 minutes on each side until crispy and golden.
- Serve with chips, ketchup, and some salad.
Oats
Oats are a slow release carb that will be perfect for your child to give them energy in the morning. Set up a perfect day of learning with this simple autumnal oatmeal.
Pumpkin spice oatmeal
Ingredients:
- 150g oats
- 150ml milk
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp ginger
- 1 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp cocoa powder
- 1 apple for garnish
- Mix your oatmeal ingredients in a bowl.
- Microwave for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Chop a sweet apple and add to the top for extra vitamins and a juicy flavour.
These easy meal ideas will be a great way to help your child with autism learn and develop. It is so important to fuel your kids the right way, and with these recipes you should have no problems helping your child to be happier and feel more ready to learn every day.