The Right Feeding Therapy for Children with Feeding Disorder 

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Right Feeding Therapy for Children with Feeding Disorder 

Food disorders are conditions characterized by food selectivity by texture (crunchy or smooth foods), by type, shape, color, or shape. Many children can also develop feeding problems through medical conditions like severe illness or reflux. Some develop difficulties in swallowing and chewing while others portray poor oral motor skills, which restrict their diet. The only thing that separates the picky children from feeding disorders is that children with eating disorders eat well when they are away from their homes. Before we address the best methods, let’s first define the procedure.

The Purpose of the Feeding Therapy

To answer this question on how the therapy works involve defining what the feeding therapy is. A simple definition is a method where a trained speech or occupational therapist teaches a child how to eat better. Usually, feeding therapy is done once or twice a week for one hour. However, the procedure will depend on the child and if they are sensory, motor issues, or both. The therapist will also plan a schedule that will address the child’s underlying barriers to enable him or her to eat appropriately. Below are the right feeding therapies that will help your child enjoy his or her food at home.

Routine Establishment

When you begin feeding therapy, it is vital to create a routine that will guide your child during feeding. One way of doing this is by making sure that your child washes his or her hands before touching food. You can do this by putting a visual schedule in the kitchen that directs them on using soap and water to clean their hands. Such a routine will make your child more confident because they get rid of the unknown’s fear. The method also teaches them to be independent, to enable them to follow directions and sequences. Small children need demonstrations. You should make sure that your child understands the vocabulary you use. Making your child understand your vocabulary is vital because it will encourage him or her to chew and bite.

Presentation

Children are attracted by what they see. In such a case, use cookie cutters to form fun shapes. You can also allow your child to help you. When serving food, you can use a divided plate if your child dislikes his food being touched. You can do this by putting the variety of food in different sections of the plate. Another way of encouraging your child to eat is to give food funny names. Such terms should also be accompanied by the flavor your child will expect to eat. Such ideas will likely make your child excited to eat. Various methods can be used to improve the eating habits of your child. Contact us here at Speech & Occupational Therapy of North Texas today and let us help you and your child![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]