While there is a lot of discussion about the causes of Autism Spectrum Disorder, there are a few facts that nobody will argue. First, the numbers of children with Autism are climbing at an alarming rate. Fifty years ago, it was almost unheard of, with 1 in 2000 children being diagnosed. Today, those numbers are closer to 1 in 150 children. Whether it is truly on the rise, or simply being diagnosed better, most people are aware of Autism and many can identify the symptoms.

One of those symptoms is Sensory Processing Disorder. Hypersensitivity to all stimulae, in all forms, can overwhelm the brain, confusing the signals and putting the affected person into panic mode. Any and all of the senses may be affected at the same time in an environment where there is a lot going on. Many parents of these children treasure quiet spaces and steady routines.

One of the biggest struggles is food texture. A child may love the taste of an apple or peach, but the texture may make it impossible to enjoy. Many parents eventually discover that freeze-dried food hits the mark with children who struggle with texture. Most children with SPD love crunchy foods.

Purchasing freeze-dried food may work for some, but commercially processed foods may have other triggers in the ingredient list.

Enter the Harvest Right Home Freeze Dryer. Enter the possibilities. Enter the virtually unlimited ability to create a menu for your child that actually STIMULATES them to eat, without the added preservatives, dyes, and enhancers that most foods contain.

It’s a funny thing… when you remove the water from your food, you almost always end up with a crunchy product. Now, imagine being able to balance your child’s diet. Imagine them eating fruits, vegetables, meats, cheese, yogurt, pudding, ice cream, and so much more.

We often get comments from parents whose lives have been made so much easier by the purchase of a Harvest Right Freeze Dryer. Fruit is one of the biggest changes, and kids love crunchy watermelon, cantaloupe, bananas, cherries, peaches, apples, or pears. Applesauce dries into a wafer-like a cracker, or you may want to put it in small molds and make bite-size bits. Yogurt drops are a hit, and the flavors are limitless. Vegetables make a great snack. We should tell you that all of your children will love these, as will you. While many families purchase a freeze dryer to help with SPD, it also encourages the whole family to eat well.

Families with children with SPD struggle with family outings. Taking the kids out for a celebratory dinner can be a challenge. Packing a bag with a few treats that your child will enjoy will make the event easier and more enjoyable for all involved. Not only will the foods be handy at home, but they will be of importance when on the go as well.

If you have a child with SPD, consider a Harvest Right for your family. If you would like to talk to us about our freeze dryers, please give us a call today, and let us help you.