Multi-Disciplinary Feeding Therapy

Multi-disciplinary Feeding Therapy in Charlotte

As such a fundamental activity, food-related difficulties and feeding challenges are often a significant concern in children with a variety of disabilities. Whether it is due to physical, psychological, or developmental disorders, eating should not be a distressing experience for children or their caregivers. In some cases, an inconsistent diet can actually worsen the effects of a child’s condition, resulting in a tricky cycle of cause and effect. Children with conditions such as autism, sensory processing disorder, or ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) frequently face obstacles at mealtime. These challenges may stem from difficulties with the mechanics of eating, behavioral resistance, sensory difficulties, or anxiety related to food.

A multi-disciplinary approach to feeding therapy can help children work through their food difficulties in a supportive and positive manner. Child & Family Development is here to help.

Signs and Symptoms of Feeding Challenges

Identifying food-related issues early can lead to more effective intervention. Children are constantly faced with new and overwhelming experiences, so many will have one or more of these interactions with food on occasion, without major concern. But consistent issues or a pattern of behavior that interferes with nutrition and daily living may need to be addressed. Here are some signs to look out for:

Extreme Picky Eating: Absolute refusal to try new foods or only eating a very limited number of textures and flavors.
Behavioral Challenges during Mealtime: Tantrums, crying, or refusing to sit at the table.
Physical Difficulties: Coughing, choking, or gagging while eating, which may indicate underlying oral motor challenges.
Psychological Symptoms: Anxiety, stress, or fear associated with eating or food presentation.
Nutritional Concerns: Noticeable weight loss, poor growth, or nutritional deficiencies.

Some of these signs may be temporary or resolve themselves relatively quickly as children grow and become more familiar with new foods and eating experiences. But if any of these symptoms persist, multi-disciplinary feeding therapy can provide a comprehensive approach to help your child develop a healthier relationship with food.

What Does Multi-Disciplinary Feeding Therapy Look Like?

At Child & Family Development, we pride ourselves on offering a holistic approach to feeding therapy. Our multi-disciplinary team includes psychologists, counselors, speech-language pathologists, and occupational therapists. Each expert brings unique skills to address the complex factors influencing a child’s feeding difficulties.

Here’s what you can expect from our program:

Comprehensive Evaluation

Medical History and Records Review: We gather and analyze all pertinent medical records before the first appointment to ensure a thorough understanding of your child’s needs.
Oral Motor Assessment: Our therapists conduct detailed evaluations of the structures and movements in the mouth to identify any physical barriers to effective eating.
Behavioral and Nutritional Observations: By observing feeding behaviors and assessing nutritional intake, we tailor our treatment strategies to each child’s specific challenges.
Standardized Questionnaires: Parents and educational staff complete questionnaires to provide insight into the child’s skills and any psychological symptoms that require attention.

Tailored Treatment Approach

Our practice utilizes the Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS) model, along with other treatment approaches to expand food repertoire, enhance oral motor skills, and develop socially acceptable feeding behaviors. These approaches are crucial for increasing a child’s comfort with eating both at home and in community settings.

Key Elements of Treatment

Food Exploration: Involves introducing new foods in a comfortable, sensory-supportive environment to encourage open-mindedness towards different tastes and textures.
Parent Education: We empower parents with the knowledge and skills to support their child’s eating strategies outside the clinic.
Oral Sensory Awareness and Motor Skills: Activities designed to improve your child’s sensitivity and control over oral movements necessary for eating.
Structured Meal and Snack Times: Establishing consistent routines that foster a positive association with eating.
Positive Reinforcement and Home Programming: Encouraging progress through praise and structured home activities that reinforce clinic-based learning.

Realizing Positive Outcomes

Our multidisciplinary feeding therapy services are designed to provide parents with the tools and training necessary to target their child’s eating strategies. The ultimate goal is to produce positive outcomes—ensuring that your child not only meets their nutritional needs but also enjoys mealtimes.

Contact Us Today

Are you ready to help your child develop a more positive relationship with food? Our team of dedicated professionals at Child & Family Development is here to support you every step of the way. We understand the complexities of feeding disorders and are committed to providing personalized, expert care.

Embark on this transformational journey with us by scheduling a consultation with our expert therapists. Reach out to the Child & Family Development today to learn more about how our multi-disciplinary feeding therapy program can make a real difference in your child’s life.