Published on 12, July, 2020
Desperately seeking some advice, my 4 year old daughter has severe pica often eating things like chalk, crayons, paper, ink from pens, stickers etc but the most worrying is plants. Any and all plants, leaves, flower buds it's all going in her mouth she can't seem to stop and it's become an compulsive obsession. Our garden is safe, it's a sensory garden but I'm terrified about poisoning/tummy problems elsewhere and it's happening often. Shes super quick and often tries to grab things while walking and puts them straight in her mouth, if you attempt to retrieve it it's swallowed.
We've tried giving regular snacks, chewy lanyards but nothing seems to satisfy the urge.
This NAS article offers some tips, along with suggestions of professionals who could support you and your daughter:
https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/behaviour/eating/all-audiencesTips from an NHS trust:
https://www.cambspborochildrenshealth.nhs.uk/services/cambridgeshire-community-paediatrics/pica-eating-non-edible-items/#you-help
Tips from the Challenging Behaviour Foundation (registered charity):
https://www.challengingbehaviour.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/007-Pica-and-Polydipsia.pdf