Feeding and Swallowing

Feeding and swallowing therapy is designed for children who struggle with eating or drinking safely and effectively. While many parents worry about picky eating, true feeding and swallowing difficulties go beyond food preferences. These challenges may include difficulty chewing, trouble coordinating swallowing, coughing or choking during meals, or avoiding entire food groups because of sensory sensitivities. Left untreated, these issues can affect nutrition, growth, and overall health. Therapy provides children with the skills and strategies they need to eat safely and enjoy a wider variety of foods.

This type of therapy is appropriate for children with a range of needs — from toddlers who gag or refuse certain textures, to children with medical or developmental conditions that affect their oral muscles, coordination, or sensory processing. While picky eating is one part of the picture, feeding therapy addresses the deeper issues of oral motor strength, swallowing safety, and mealtime behaviors. It helps children gradually overcome challenges so that eating becomes less stressful for both the child and the family.

Early intervention is important because feeding difficulties often impact more than just meals. When children avoid foods or struggle to swallow, it can affect their ability to participate in family routines, gain independence, and receive the nutrients necessary for healthy growth. A speech-language pathologist trained in feeding and swallowing therapy works with children to improve oral skills, expand food acceptance, and ensure safe swallowing. With support, children can develop healthier eating patterns, reduce stress at mealtimes, and build the foundation for lifelong wellness.