Eating Healthy At Social Events

Article At A Glance:

• Social events (like parties and barbeques) can test our resolve to help our children eat in a way that helps heal them
• With some forethought and preparation, your kids CAN enjoy parties while still maintaining healthy eating habits

Birthday parties are a staple of the childhood experience. What kid doesn't love hitting the piñata, jumping on the inflatable castle, and playing games with friends? But if your child has autism and you've committed to ensuring that they are eating foods that help them maintain the best optimal health, what can you do about the inevitable sugar-loaded foods lurking at such parties?

Navigating social events can be challenging, but you do not have to forego them altogether. Here are some tips to help stick to healthy eating even at parties:

Communicate With The Host

I tend to reach out before the event and see what foods will be available. If it's a birthday party, cake and ice cream are almost inevitable, but you may be surprised to learn that other families also serve healthy options. The only way to know is to ask.

Serve A Large Meal Beforehand

If the social gathering has foods that could be a temptation, I often serve a filling meal to my son before the party in the hopes that he will be so full and satisfied that the junk foods will not be as appealing.

Provide “Safe Foods”

In cases where social events involve adults as well (such as family reunions or barbeques), I bring along safe alternatives to favorite foods that are tasty and healthy. For example, I'll bring grass-fed organic hot dogs from Trader Joe's to throw on the grill.

Committing to this lifestyle is certainly not easy, and when parties and other social gatherings come up, it's tempting to throw up your hands and say, “just this one time won't hurt.”

I challenge you, however, to stick with it. Take the time and energy to help your child eat better (even if not perfectly) by preparing healthier alternatives. Yes, some people may think you're being too extreme, but you're not doing it for them: you're doing it to help your child reach their full potential. And that's more than worth the extra effort.

*This website is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by a healthcare professional.