Marion Wilm, OTR/L, occupational therapist and Barb Hartshorn, MS, CCC-SLP, speech therapist work together at the Pineville office of Child and Family Development, especially with children and teens with feeding difficulties and swallowing disorders.  Both have extensive training and experience, incluidng with the Sequential Oral Sensory (S.O.S.) approach.  Recently, they reviewed this article from the STAR Center on Mile High Mamas about picky eaters and problem feeders.   Marion and Barb like the information shared, including this excerpt:

“Research shows that approximately 20% of kids have feeding difficulties. These children can be divided into two groups: picky eaters and problem feeders. 

Picky eaters are kids who only eats foods from one category or only a few foods in each category. Picky eaters generally have a limited number of foods they will eat (about 30). Picky eaters will generally tolerate new foods on their plates, and will usually touch or even taste new foods.

Problem feeders are much more restrictive in the variety of foods they will eat, usually less than 20. It is not unusual for children who are problem feeders to have meltdowns when faced with a new food. These types of eaters generally refuse to eat entire categories of food textures.

Feeding issues are physical, not psychological or intentional. They are a result of skills deficit that can be treated.” 

Read more about our SOS services on our blog.

Schedule a free consult with Marion, Barb or another SOS-trained therapist at Child and Family Development with a quick phone call: