We often think of consuming food as second nature, but in reality, the way our bodies and minds approach eating is a multi-factor, complex process. When something interrupts that process, feeding can become a source of concern and stress for everyone involved. Feeding therapy can help to provide parents and children with strategies and support to improve these difficulties.
Difficulties with consuming food can be rooted in many different contributing factors and can have sensory, physical, and/or behavioral components. A referral to a Speech-Language Pathologist or Occupational Therapist who is experienced in feeding therapy can help determine the most effective course of action. But how do you know when your child might need a referral?
Here are some signs to watch for:
Is your child refusing to eat or drink? Did you know that picky eating isn’t as “normal” as we think? While yes, it is typical to develop preferences, refusing to eat consistently, rejecting entire food groups and/or eating fewer than about 20 different foods are signs that a referral might be needed.
Does your child gag, choke, or vomit often? Frequent gagging, choking, or vomiting may indicate an issue that needs to be addressed.
Is your child not gaining weight or growing as would be expected? These can all be signs that there are difficulties with feeding, especially if other medical causes have been ruled out by a physician.
Does your child demonstrate strong preferences for certain consistencies, temperature, or presentation of foods? Some children have very strong sensitivity to various textures, temperatures, or even how food is presented/arranged on a plate. These sensitivities can lead to avoidance of foods and feeding difficulties that therapy can help with!
Do you find that mealtimes become a source of stress, crying, dysregulation, and tantrums? Feeding should be a positive experience. If it is not, therapy can help!
Do you suspect your child has difficulty with latching, sucking, chewing, or swallowing? These can also be indicators that a specialist can help.
Does your child have other medical conditions or challenges that impact his/her eating? Because feeding is a multi-system, complex process, there are a wide range of developmental or medical challenges that can impact eating. A feeding therapist can help to provide strategies and support in these situations as well.
Many parents can feel brushed aside, like they’re doing something wrong, or may not know where to turn for help when their child is struggling to eat. Bottom line - trust your gut! Early intervention is always best. If you are concerned, have questions, or just feel that “something” isn’t right, reach out to your physician and request a referral to a feeding specialist.
I hope you enjoyed this "funtastic" blog post!
- Clara Klap, M.S., CCC-SLP
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