3 Tips for Teaching Your Child How to Swallow Pills

It’s likely that somewhere in the development of Your Autism Game Plan your child will need to swallow a pill. While it’s great when the supplement or medication you’re interested in comes in a pleasant-tasting liquid, powder, or chewable form, there are going to be certain situations where the supplement or medication will need to be taken in pill form.

Getting your child with autism to swallow a pill can be a stressful thought! You may even be tempted to avoid certain medications or supplements because of it.

Here are 3 Tips For Teaching Your Child How To Swallow Pills that I’ve found helpful.

1. Play it Cool: When it’s time to give your child their supplement or medicine, don’t make a big deal out of it. The more talk about it, the more likely you are to increase your child’s worry about the process.
   
   Try this! Use simple directions with a calm voice.
   
   
2. Use a Straw: Using a straw will help your child take water into their mouth without having to move their head. I love using stainless steel straws, not only are they reusable but they’re good for the environment. I try to avoid using plastic because of the toxins it contains, so I also recommend using a glass cup.
   
   Try this! This stainless steel reusable straw set comes with 10 straws in a variety of shapes and sizes and includes two cleaning brushes.
   
   
3. Chin to Chest: Have your child put the pill in their mouth. Then they should hold the glass low enough that they have to tip their head down and put their chin toward their chest. When they take a sip of water in this position, the capsule will float to the back of their mouth leading it toward their throat and making it easier to swallow.
   
   This technique works best with capsules and soft gels. Wherever possible, look for capsules or soft gels instead of tablets.
   
   Try this! Practice this technique with a magnesium supplement.

Don’t let the fear of swallowing pills stop you from trying a new supplement or medication with your child. You can do this!

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