As a children’s dietitian, I work with so many families who dread BBQ season — and not because of the weather!
For kids with sensory food challenges, BBQs can be a full-blown assault on the senses. The smoky smells, buzzing crowds, unfamiliar foods, loud clanking, sticky textures… it can feel overwhelming and unpredictable.
But BBQs don’t have to end in meltdown.
In fact, with some simple tweaks, they can become an opportunity for relaxed, playful food exposure — without pressure to eat.
Here’s how:
1. Mini Skewer Builders
This is a brilliant way to offer choice and control in a very sensory-friendly way.
👉 Give your child small sticks (cocktail sticks, cut straws, or lollipop sticks) and offer little bowls of foods they already like, plus one or two new ones.
Example skewer ideas:
– Cheese cubes, grapes, cooked chicken
– Chopped strawberries and marshmallows
– Cucumber chunks, GF cocktail sausages
Why it works:
Threading helps with fine motor skills, gives them control, and creates a fun, low-pressure interaction with food.
2. DIY Burger (or Wrap) Bars
Instead of serving a ready-built burger, try laying out all the components separately.
Your setup could include:
– Mini burgers (meat, veggie, fish fingers)
– Buns or wraps
– Small bowls of toppings: grated cheese, sliced cucumber, ketchup, hummus
Why it works:
Sensory eaters often dislike food mixed together. Separation gives control and reduces overwhelm — and they can build their own if they’re ready.
3. Sauce Painting
This one’s a big hit in my sessions!
Use paintbrushes or the back of a spoon and let your child “paint” sauces or dips onto:
– Toast strips
– Cooked meats
– Rice cakes or crackers
Why it works:
They’re interacting with food through texture and smell, without pressure to eat. It’s all part of the exposure process.
4. Frozen Fruit Lollies
These can feel calming, cold, and familiar — perfect when everything else feels too much.
Try:
– Banana + strawberry smoothie mix in moulds
– Yoghurt swirled with mango puree
– Diluted juice with slices of orange or berries
Why it works:
Temperature change can help distract from texture challenges. Plus, they’re a bit of summer fun!
5. Pretend Play BBQ Station
Sometimes, the best food exposures don’t even involve food.
Set up a sensory play BBQ tray using:
– Toy BBQ kits or mini tongs
– Playdough burgers or skewers
– Pretend food sets or cardboard cut-outs
Why it works:
Play builds familiarity and confidence. Pretend food today can lead to real food tomorrow — without the stress.
Final Thoughts
If BBQs have felt overwhelming, isolating, or meltdown-prone in the past — please know you’re not alone.
I’ve supported so many families through this exact challenge, and it all starts with making small changes that meet your child where they are.
💡Want more support?
My Sensory Eaters Online Programme is packed with practical tips, real-life strategies, and expert support from both a dietitian (that’s me!) and an occupational therapist.
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Written by Dr Kirsty Porter, Children’s Dietitian