Feeding Therapy

Picky Eating or Feeding Problem?

Do you, or your child, have challenges with picky eating? If this struggle has lasted for more than two years, a feeding therapy evaluation from one of our experienced therapists can help you to understand the underlying causes and develop an individualized plan grounded in the evidence-based SOS (Sensory Oral Sequential) approach to feeding. At NEST, we are committed to helping individuals and families develop new skills that will allow them to enjoy mealtimes together again.

All About the Feeding Assessment

Feeding difficulties in infants, young children, and adolescents can be a source of stress and concern for parents. In adults, it can impact nutrition and limit daily activities. Our feeding therapy services are designed to provide comprehensive and evidence-based interventions to support individuals and their families in the development of healthy eating habits and achieving optimal feeding skills. At NEST, we use the following evidence-based practices to promote confidence in feeding:

Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS) Approach

Our team of trained and experienced feeding therapists utilizes the Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS) Approach, a multidisciplinary feeding therapy program that addresses the sensory, motor, oral, and behavioral aspects of feeding difficulties. The SOS Approach focuses on creating a positive and enjoyable feeding experience for children, while gradually expanding their food repertoire and improving their feeding skills.

Our SOS-based feeding therapy is tailored to each child's unique needs and may include:

1. Sensory Exploration: Engaging children in sensory play and exposure to a variety of foods to desensitize them to different textures, tastes, and smells.

2. Motor Skill Development: Incorporating exercises and activities to improve oral motor skills, coordination, and strength for safe and efficient eating.

3. Oral Stimulation: Using techniques to encourage proper oral posture, chewing, and swallowing skills.

4. Behavioral Strategies: Implementing strategies to manage challenging behaviors related to feeding difficulties, such as food refusal or aversion.

Our Baby-Led Weaning-based feeding therapy may include:

1. Parent Education: Providing parents with guidance on the principles and techniques of Baby-Led Weaning, including appropriate food choices, portion sizes, and safe feeding practices.

2. Infant-Led Feeding: Encouraging infants to self-feed using age-appropriate finger foods, utensils, and cups to develop their self-feeding skills and independence.

3. Sensory Exposure: Exposing infants to a variety of textures, tastes, and smells through age-appropriate foods to promote sensory exploration and acceptance of different foods.

4. Responsive Feeding: Encouraging parents to be attuned to their infant's hunger and fullness cues and to provide a supportive and positive feeding environment.

Baby-Led Weaning

Our feeding therapy services also include Baby-Led Weaning, an approach that encourages infants to self-feed and explore a variety of foods at their own pace. Baby-Led Weaning promotes the development of self-regulation and independence in eating, while respecting the infant's cues and preferences.

Our feeding therapists work collaboratively with parents or caregivers to develop a personalized feeding plan that meets the unique needs of each child. We provide education, support, and practical strategies to help parents confidently navigate feeding challenges and promote healthy eating habits in their infants and young children.

If you have concerns about your child's feeding skills or eating habits, contact us today to schedule an appointment. Let us provide the specialized feeding therapy services, including the SOS Approach and Baby-Led Weaning, to support your child's feeding development and overall well-being!