Breaking Bread, Nourishing Connections -- People with and without Disabilities Together at Mealtime -- By Karin Melberg Schwier & Erin Schwier Stewart

Mealtimes are about much more than the physical act of eating — they’re also about enjoying the company of others, nourishing human connections, and participating in a meaningful social ritual. But sometimes, people with disabilities miss out on these essential aspects of dining. Parents, friends, and human services professionals can change that with this warm and engaging guide to fostering pleasurable, fully inclusive mealtimes for people with disabilities.

Developed by family members who consulted with a nutritionist, human services workers, educators, and people with disabilities and their families, this practical handbook helps readers support individuals as they choose what, where, when, and how they eat. Readers will gain a deeper understanding of what dining can mean and will learn how to give people with disabilities the guidance they need to

• make the most of the social opportunities mealtimes provide
  
  
• make informed decisions about what foods to eat and communicate their choices
  
  
• connect with family, friends and neighbors during mealtime
  
  
• prepare meals, with the help of simple, fully illustrated recipes complete with nutritional information (with facts provided by a licensed nutritionist)