Contrary to popular belief, eating is not a default for some people. It can be difficult on a number of levels for many reasons. In some cases, babies and young children just don’t have enough of an appetite that’s ideal for their growth pattern.
Feeding therapy came about with the specific goal of helping very young kids develop healthy eating habits. It is also a guide for them to genuinely enjoy food.
What Is Feeding Therapy?
Contrary to popular belief, there is more to this than just teaching children to properly eat in terms of proportion and food choices. Effective feeding patterns and behaviors as a whole are a key part of feeding therapy. Techniques include the behavioral approach and the “Get Permission” approach.
Feeding therapists work with both the children and their families to figure out what’s causing the problems. They will then be able to develop particular, customised therapies so that the eating process becomes more convenient and fun. There are also long-term positive benefits to addressing issues that are below the surface which will pay out over time.
Working with a trained therapist will benefit:
- Children that do not eat during mealtimes
- Children who are extremely picky eaters
- Children who struggle with swallowing
Is Feeding Therapy Really Necessary?
The best way to know for sure whether a child needs feeding therapy is to see their paediatrician. If they say so, then they will recommend a trusted feeding therapist near you. That said, therapy sessions won’t start immediately.
A thorough evaluation will be done by the therapist upon initial consult. This will involve looking into the full feeding history of the child and watching them eat an average meal. In some cases, therapists will ask for a “meal journal,” which is basically a list of meals the child had within a certain period (usually up to three days prior).
Parents of children with aspiration in their history will need to submit the last swallow study done to the therapist. A swallow study, as the name suggests, displays the events in a child’s esophagus and throat as they eat. This is where underlying issues with swallowing will be determined for sure.
What Are the Key Advantages of Feeding Therapy?
- Better Growth and Health – When children eat more and their food quality is improved, they will also have better growth.
- Kids Will Enjoy Food Through Play – While the usual case is kids being prevented from playing with their food, in this case, it’s a great way for them to uncover new textures and tastes.
- Mealtimes Become Far Less Stressful – There will be an improvement during mealtimes when the child becomes less picky, making the routine more pleasant, which lifts the whole household.
Additionally, healthy eating habits will be established.
Conclusion
Eating is not necessarily a natural occurrence for people. Babies and children sometimes don’t have enough of an appetite to consume food best for their growth and development. Feeding therapy is a great way for them to develop healthy patterns and behaviors for improved eating.
If you need paediatric occupational therapy in Glenwood, you can depend on Cloud Nine Therapy Services. We offer child-centered occupational therapy services. Contact us today!