The feeding program is designed to help children who have a medical oral motor and behavioral issues that impede their feeding and growth. Treatment is geared to help a child overcome feeding issues and establish proper feeding and nutritional habits so that additional health problems can be avoided.
Feeding issues change as children age. Babies begin to swallow in the uterus in preparation for life. As infants, difficulties can include latching, insufficient intraoral pressure, and failure to thrive. Tongue thrust, aversions to certain food textures, and hyperactive gag reflex can make meal time a stressful and even unpleasant experience for children and parents. Speech therapists can help improve oral tone, reduce sensitivity to different textures, and implement strategies to make mealtime an enjoyable and nutritious event.
When to refer?
Does the child regularly refuse food at meals
Does the child only eat certain textures?
Does the child only eat a few, highly preferred foods
Does the child often spit out food
Does the child frequently vomit during or after meals
Does the child have difficulty chewing?
Does the child often cry or throw food during meals?
Does the child eat little at meals and snack throughout the day or subsist primarily on formula/supplements?
Is (over 18 months) unable to self-feed using fingers or utensils
Does the parent prepare separate meals for the child?
If you answered yes to several of these questions, a referral to a speech-language pathologist and/or occupational therapist is required to increase your child’s feeding skills and abilities.
To make an appointment at Cincinnati Speech Services, LLC or for additional information, please contact Sharon at 513-451-1551 or through email: info@cincinnatispeech.com