WHAT IS FEEDING THERAPY?
Feeding therapy can address difficulties with acceptance, skills, safety, or efficiency with eating/drinking. A licensed speech pathologist with training in feeding and swallowing disorders (also called "dysphagia") can provide strategies and interventions to help make eating safer, more comfortable, and more efficient.
WHEN SHOULD I SEE A FEEDING THERAPIST?
Any time you have a concern about your child's ability to eat, a speech pathologist who is trained in feeding therapy may be able to help. Some issues may include:
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Difficulty latching to breast/chest or bottle
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Gasping, breath holding, or other difficulty coordinating breathing with eating for infants
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Lengthy feeding times
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Not taking enough volume of liquid or food
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Coughing, gagging, or changes in voice when eating or drinking
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Only accepting specific textures or types of food
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Difficulty chewing or moving food/liquid inside the mouth
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Frequent dribbling, spitting food out, or pocketing food in cheeks
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Difficulty transitioning to solid foods
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Children with certain medical conditions or histories may be at higher risk for feeding and swallowing difficulties.
IF IN DOUBT, REACH OUT!
If you're unsure whether your child would benefit from an evaluation or if you'd like to learn more about us, please reach out! We can't wait to meet you!
