FEEDING THERAPY

"There is no love sincerer than the love of food." ― George Bernard Shaw

Would my child benefit?

If your child is experiencing any of the following signs/symptoms, they may benefit from a feeding evaluation and/or therapy:
-Oral motor deficits
-Poor weight gain
-Difficulty self-feeding
-Choking, gagging, coughing or vomiting before, during, or after feeds [bottle or solids]
-Texture avoidance/aversion
-Difficulty transitioning to baby foods, solids, finger foods, etc.
-Less than 20 accepted foods at age 2
-Dropping foods out of diet with no foods to replace them

Evaluation

A feeding / dysphagia evaluation consists of an in-depth case history / interview, assessment of oral structures as it relates to feeding, and a mealtime observation. Our clinicians are highly trained to ask specific questions and make observations regarding a child's sensory and musculature systems and how they impact feeding skills. If there are any suspected secondary issues that may be deterring from positive feeding experiences (i.e. reflux, respiratory issues, oral aversion, GI issues, low muscle tone, oral restrictions), a referral to the appropriate doctor or specialist will be made. 

Therapy

After a complete feeding evaluation, a treatment plan will be established based on the child's current level of development. This plan will be reviewed with the parents and other medical professionals as necessary.  

Therapy sessions are conducted on a weekly or biweekly basis based on your child's needs. Parents are often encouraged to attend sessions with their child in order to learn proper feeding techniques and to promote successful carryover into the natural home environment.