By Kirsten Schneider, OTR/L
What does a Pediatric Feeding Therapist Do?
Pediatric Occupational Therapists (OTs), who are trained in feeding therapy, focus on using a feeding hierarchy to increase a child's food repertoire. OTs will provide skilled, individualized intervention for children who may experience these deficits by addressing oral motor skills, coordination, and sensory processing. They work with families to help create goals to encourage success in the home and school environments. An individualized plan of care is created for children who demonstrate picky eating behaviors. The main goal for treatment is to reduce stress during meal times and increase quality time during meals as a family.
How do I know if my kid is a picky eater?
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Children may be considered a picky eater if they meet the following criteria:
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What types of things will you be working on?
The OT will establish goals for your child relating to increasing food intake, their food repertoire, and mealtime routines. The OT will also work closely with the family to establish home programs. Oftentimes, children who have food selectivity often experience a flight or fight reaction to unknown foods. In order to decrease this reaction, the OT will work with the child using sensory strategies as well as a food hierarchy.
What is a food hierarchy and why do we use it?
A food hierarchy allows children to become accustomed to the food and eliminate some unknown factors before eating something new. Children who are picky eaters may have difficulties with new foods, including their texture, smell, temperature, and taste.
If you are concerned your child might be a picky eater, call our office today at 517.669.7228 to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.