Your child can master the skills they need to properly eat and drink. With pediatric feeding and swallowing therapy done the More to Say way, your child will learn how to enjoy their meals. Our pediatric therapists in Oxford, CT, and Branford, CT, have helped the children in our community overcome many feeding troubles, including:
It takes a lot of skill to properly eat and drink. Not only are there different oral motor and coordination skills involved with chewing and swallowing, but some children experience sensory issues that present even more of a challenge come mealtime.
Your child’s evaluation will tell us exactly which areas of eating and drinking they need help with so we can create a program tailored to their specific needs. We address the following areas at both our Branford, CT, and Oxford, CT, pediatric therapy clinics:
If your child is an extreme picky eater, they may be experiencing behavioral troubles with food. Children who have the difficulties listed above with feeding and swallowing can develop an aversion to food due to the negative association: i.e., “If I eat this, I will choke, and I don’t like that feeling.”
Your child may also avoid foods due to sensory difficulties. Certain textures, colors, smells, and other qualities of food can be overwhelming; but if it’s not handled, your child will actively avoid trying new foods, eating Nutritious foods, etc. Thankfully, pediatric therapy done the More to Say way will empower your child to overcome these troubles.
Your child may need a feeding and swallowing therapy evaluation if they tend to:
Starting feeding therapy for your child is a great first step toward addressing eating difficulties and ensuring their overall well-being. You should start by talking to your child’s pediatrician or a feeding therapist. Share your concerns about their eating habits, food aversions, or feeding challenges. If the healthcare provider deems feeding therapy is necessary, they’ll typically provide you with a referral to a speech therapist or occupational therapist who specializes in feeding.
On your child’s first meeting with their feeding therapist, they’ll complete a comprehensive assessment. The therapist typically observes your child’s eating habits, so they can discover specific challenges and assess overall oral motor skills. Often, you’ll work in collaboration with the therapist to set clear and achievable goals. From increasing food variety to improving self-feeding skills, your child’s feeding therapist can address sensory issues related to food. Then, you’ll schedule regular therapy sessions to help your child learn healthier eating habits and overcome feeding challenges.
If your child consistently struggles with eating, it may be time to consider feeding therapy. Pay close attention to your child’s eating habits and development and watch for these signs:
As always, trust your parental instincts. Consult your child’s pediatrician or a feeding therapist if you’re worried about their eating habits and growth.
If eating is a challenge for your child, pediatric feeding therapy can help. It offers a multitude of benefits to those who struggle with eating and swallowing. Some key advantages are:
Many insurance plans—including both private and public—cover pediatric feeding therapy. It’s important to check with your specific provider to understand the details of your coverage. Some policies may have certain requirements or limitations for coverage. For example, you may need a referral from a healthcare provider, or the therapy must be deemed a medical necessity.
The best way to get started is to contact your insurance company and learn about coverage for pediatric feeding therapy. Make sure to ask about all required documentation and referrals. If for any reason your insurance doesn’t cover pediatric feeding therapy, you may have other options. Some clinics offer payment plans or sliding scale fees based on income. There are also nonprofits and grants that may provide financial assistance, too. Make sure to advocate for your child’s needs and know there are solutions available to ensure they get quality care.
Parents play a critical role in pediatric feeding therapy. Here’s how parents can actively contribute to their child’s progress in a positive, supportive way:
Parents shouldn’t be spectators in pediatric feeding therapy. They should be active participants. Working together with a dedicated therapy team, parents can empower their child to build a positive relationship with food.
Are you worried about your child’s speech or language skills? Fill out the form below or call us at (203) 828-6790 to schedule a pediatric feeding and swallowing evaluation at our Branford, CT, or Oxford, CT, clinic today!
