A little more about Feeding Therapy
Feeding therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on helping individuals with difficulties related to feeding and eating. This can include difficulties with trying new foods (touching, smelling, texture differences, etc.), chewing, swallowing, and establishing healthy eating habits, among other things. Feeding therapy is designed to improve the ability to eat and drink, and to promote healthy growth and development.
Feeding therapy is accomplished through a variety of techniques and strategies, including exercises to improve oral motor skills, strategies for improving chewing and swallowing, and training in healthy eating habits.
In some cases, feeding therapy may also involve working with a team of healthcare professionals, such as occupational therapists, speech therapists, and dietitians. This multidisciplinary approach can help to address a range of feeding difficulties and ensure that individuals receive the most comprehensive and effective treatment possible. At Columbia Pediatric Therapy, we have both SLPs and OT's trained in feeding strategies, depending on the child's presentation. Referrals are made out of clinic for dietitians and other specialists, if needed.
For children, feeding therapy can be especially important for addressing feeding difficulties that are impacting their growth and development. Children with feeding difficulties may have difficulty gaining weight, may struggle to eat a variety of foods, or may experience discomfort or distress when eating. Feeding therapy can help to address these difficulties and promote healthy growth and development.
Feeding therapy is one of our favorites, as we hope to help children discover how enjoyable their relationship with food can be.