This resource offers a concise, sensory‑rich guide to mealtimes for children with deafblindness and multi‑sensory impairments. Caregivers will find step‑by‑step strategies for preparing a distraction‑free environment, introducing and exploring utensils and foods through touch, smell, and taste, and guiding safe, independent self‑feeding. Adaptations such as consistent start‑and‑end cues, tactile signing, and adapted grips ensure each child can engage meaningfully in the routine.

Designed for families, educators, and support professionals, the guide also covers sensory feedback techniques—letting children feel chewing and swallowing movements—and reinforcing basic taste concepts (sweet, salty, sour, bitter). With a focus on positive reinforcement and autonomy, this tool helps build confidence, independence, and enjoyment at every meal.

Introduction

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) are essential skills that enable children with deafblindness to participate fully and independently in daily routines. Mealtime supports nutrition, social interaction, and self-confidence. This guide offers sensory rich, step-by-step strategies to help you build your child’s skills and independence at meals.

Objectives

To build your child’s independence and confidence at mealtimes.

To encourage self-feeding skills and safe swallowing.

To reinforce food concepts (sweet, salty, sour, etc.) through multi‑sensory exploration.

Materials Needed

Utensils & Tableware

Plate (distinct color or texture)

Spoon (adapted grip if needed)

Fork

Bowl or plate for different foods

Drinking cup or glass

Hygiene Items

Washbasin or bowl for handwashing

Soap and water

Towel

Bib or mealtime cloth

Food Items

A variety of textures and flavors (e.g mashed banana, soft fruits, porridge)

Liquids (water, juice) in a small cup

Mealtime Routine:

A consistent, sensory rich routine helps children with deafblindness learn mealtime skills and build confidence. Start with a clear cue that mealtime is beginning, guide your child through exploring utensils and foods, support their self-feeding, and finish with praise and a closing signal.

Prepare & Signal

Ensure both the caregiver and the child are seated comfortably at a tidy, clear table.

Wash and dry hands together.

Use the bib or a spoon as a consistent “start” signal.

Explore Utensils & Foods

Offer each item (spoon, plate, cup) for the child to touch and name, using speech plus tactile signing.

Allow sniffing, touching, and small tastes of each food.

Prompt: “Can you smell how sweet this is?”

Guided Self Feeding

Scoop a modest portion onto the spoon.

Gently guide the child’s hand to their mouth; then let them feed themselves as much as possible.

Provide adapted grips if needed.

Sensory Feedback & Praise

Place the child’s hand on your cheek or throat to feel chewing and swallowing movements.

Offer specific praise for each success (e.g “Great scoop!” “Well done chewing!”).

Reinforce Taste Concepts

Introduce simple tasting words as the child samples each bite:

“Sweet,” “salty,” “sour,” “bitter.”

Finish & Clean Up

Guide the child to clear away utensils and wash hands again.

Use a consistent closing phrase, such as “We have finished our meal,” to signal the end.

Key Learning Points & Tips

Comfort & Focus: Minimize distractions on the table and in the environment.

Consistent Cues: Use the same object (spoon, bib) to signal mealtime start and end.

Sensory Engagement: Let your child smell, touch, and taste food before eating.

Empower Choice: Place small amounts of food on their lips and allow them to choose acceptance.

Joint Attention: Use shared attention techniques—place their palm on your cheek during chewing.

Practice Beyond Meals: Allow utensil practice in play times to build familiarity without hunger pressure.

Positive Reinforcement: Praise every small success— “good, good, good!”

Conclusion

Implementing these multisensory, consistent, and child-led strategies will help your child with deafblindness develop mealtime skills, build independence, and improve self-esteem.

 Remember: small steps and patience pave the way for big achievements.