Each child possesses unique traits, and those with special needs demand extra attention and care.

Parents and caregivers face numerous challenges, including the issues of special needs children eating inappropriate objects like books and paper towels.

This behavior poses significant health risks and requires immediate intervention.

What Causes Unusual Eating Habits in Special Needs Children?

Several factors may contribute to this behavior, including:

1. Sensory Processing Disorder

Children with sensory processing disorders may seek oral stimulation to regulate their sensory input..

For instance, a child with autism spectrum disorder may chew on their shirt collar or pencils to fulfill this sensory need.

Chewing or eating non-food items might provide them with the sensory feedback they crave.

2. PICA Syndrome

‘Pica syndrome’ is a disorder characterized by constant cravings in special needs children to eat non-edible items.

Children with developmental disabilities, including ASD, are more prone to this feeding disorder.

This syndrome can be the outcome of a sensory-seeking behavior that encourages children to ingest non-food items for various reasons, including:

• Sensory stimulation
• Anxiety relief
• Exploration

3. Anxiety & Stress

Some children may eat non-food items as a coping mechanism for dealing with anxiety or stress.

For instance, a child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) might engage in this behavior to self-soothe during moments of sensory overwhelm or emotional distress.

Chewing on objects like paper towels or books could offer them a temporary distraction or outlet for their heightened energy levels.

4. Exploration and Curiosity

Young children, including those with special needs, often explore their environment through oral means, sometimes leading to eating inappropriate items.

For example, a toddler with sensory processing disorder might put various objects in their mouth to understand their texture and taste.

Practical Solutions and Strategies to Manage Unusual Eating Habits

Addressing the challenge of special needs children eating non-food items like crayons and dirt requires a multi-faceted approach. This approach focuses on:

• Prevention
• Intervention
• Support

Here are some practical strategies to consider:

1. Supervision and Environmental Modification

Maintain constant supervision of the child, especially in environments where non-food items are accessible.

Modify the child's surroundings to minimize access to frequently ingested objects.

Keep books, paper towels, and other potential hazards out of reach.

2. Provide Safe Alternatives

Offer safe and appropriate chew toys or sensory tools to satisfy the child's oral sensory needs.

Chewable jewelry, silicone teething toys, or textured chew sticks can be alternatives to non-food items.

3. Address Sensory Needs

Collaborate with occupational therapists or other specialists to develop sensory-based interventions tailored to the child's sensory processing needs.

These interventions may encompass sensory diets or sensory integration therapy.

4. Implement Behavior Management Techniques

• Use positive reinforcement strategies to encourage appropriate behavior.
• Caregivers and educators must praise and reward the child when they exhibit reformed behaviors.
• Implement redirection techniques to guide the child's attention from non-food items to more appropriate activities.

5. Communication and Social Stories

• Use visual supports, such as social stories or picture schedules, to teach the child about appropriate eating behaviors and the consequences of ingesting non-food items.
• Encourage open communication with the child's caregivers, teachers, and therapists to ensure consistency in addressing the behavior across different environments.

6. Seek Professional Guidance

If the problem persists consult with healthcare professionals, including pediatricians, psychologists, and behavioral therapists.

Evaluate the root causes of the behavior to formulate a comprehensive intervention plan.