What is Feeding Therapy?

First I should say that this blog is not just for parent's with children with feeding difficulties.  All infants/toddlers go through a "picky" stage, and it is important to understand what this means, products that are helpful, tricks, tips and support to get you through this time!

Everyday I get the question, "What is an OT?" followed by "How are YOU going to get my child to eat?"  Most parents come to my office and tell me that they have tried EVERYTHING.  What they usually have not tried, is feeding therapy with a certified occupational therapist.

Occupational Therapists can help people of all ages and abilities.  We usually assist people/children with daily life tasks (ie: eating, sleeping, playing, cooking, getting dressed, hygiene, community activities, social skills, etc.)  An OT can be found in schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, skilled nursing facilities, NICUs, private practice, and community centers.  As a pediatric occupational therapist, I help children and their families with any difficulties they are facing that are interfering with their daily routines.

Feeding therapy is tricky business, and the most difficult part is connecting with the child.  If you are concerned with your child's quirks with regards to eating and are wondering if you need to seek out an OTs assistance, the best action plan would be to get an EVALUATION. 

Feeding is an essential part of life, and when you are a parent, feeding is usually your MAIN purpose especially when your child is too young to self-feed.  What happens when your child just wont eat?!  This brings feelings of defeat, failure, frustration, and often times anger.  You begin to dread mealtimes, and all your friends/family say, "Give him/her to me for a week, and I'll get him to eat!"  With feeding therapy, you can overcome these hurdles and begin to "see the light at the end of the tunnel".  It is a slow process with baby steps and lots of "mouse bites", but as long as you are consistent and strong, your child will learn to eat new foods, more nutritious foods, self-feed, and sit at the table/highchair without tantrums. 

Stay tuned for tips, tricks and knowledge that you will not find on WebMD!!!