Autism spectrum disorder and food selectivity

a case study in early childhood education

Abstract

The research investigates the difficulties and challenges faced by early childhood education schools when working with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and food selectivity. The study is grounded in approaches that value the cultural and environmental aspects involved in the feeding process, emphasizing especially its social dimension and its relationship with ASD. From a theoretical perspective, it is supported by contributions from psychoanalysis, seeking to interpret and formulate hypotheses based on data collected in a public Early Childhood Education Center located in the municipality of São Mateus, Espírito Santo, focusing on Milo, a four-year-old child diagnosed with ASD and feeding difficulties. The use of the conversational method made it possible to construct a life history of the participant, articulated through the perspectives of the school, the teachers, the family, and participant observation. From this process, it was possible to understand that the school institution faces multiple challenges in supporting children with ASD, as well as other children with food selectivity, which creates difficulties both for the students and for the school itself. It was also observed that these challenges are not limited to the school environment, but also appear in other contexts of the child’s life, such as the family environment. The strategies proposed and implemented throughout the research were not effective, mainly due to the lack of continuity and persistence in carrying out interventions aimed at improving eating behaviors, both on the part of the school and the family. Therefore, in order to promote better quality of life, health, and development opportunities, the importance of investing in the implementation of nutritional education practices for both children and teachers is highlighted. As a practical contribution, a guide was developed based on this research, intended for schools and families, with the aim of expanding access to information and providing support to professionals and institutions seeking to deepen their knowledge on the subject.