Nourishing Confidence: Feeding Therapy with McKibben & Monte
Empowering Children to Build Healthy Relationships with Food
Feeding in occupational therapy with children is a specialized area that focuses on addressing difficulties and challenges related to eating and drinking. Our occupational therapists play a crucial role in helping children develop the necessary skills to eat independently, expand their food preferences, and establish positive mealtime routines.
One of the key aspects of feeding therapy is the assessment of a child’s oral motor skills, sensory sensitivities, and overall development. Our occupational therapists carefully observe how a child interacts with food, utensils, and their environment during meals. They assess factors such as chewing, swallowing, tongue movement, and coordination to understand the underlying challenges that may be impacting the child’s ability to eat.
At McKibben & Monte, we understand that feeding difficulties can be a complex and concerning challenge for both children and their families. Our dedicated Occupational Therapists specialize in providing feeding therapy to help children develop a positive relationship with food, ensuring they receive the nourishment they need to thrive.
Addressing Feeding Difficulties
Feeding difficulties can manifest in various ways, including picky eating, food aversions, sensory sensitivities, and difficulties with self-feeding. These challenges can impact a child’s nutritional intake, growth, and overall well-being. At McKibben & Monte, we’re here to provide the guidance and support your child needs to foster healthy eating habits.
Our Approach
Based on their evaluation, McKibben & Monte’s occupational therapists design individualized treatment plans that cater to the specific needs and goals of each child. These plans often incorporate a combination of therapeutic techniques, play-based activities, and sensory exploration to address feeding difficulties and promote skill development.
Our therapists may introduce different food textures gradually to help children become more comfortable with a variety of tastes and consistencies. They may use strategies like food chaining, which involves gradually introducing new foods that are similar to the child’s preferred choices, to expand their repertoire of acceptable foods. We also work closely with parents and caregivers to provide education and support, helping them understand how to encourage positive eating behaviors and create a conducive mealtime environment at home.
Our occupational therapists recognize the importance of addressing any underlying sensory issues that may contribute to feeding challenges. They may incorporate sensory integration techniques into therapy sessions, such as providing calming or stimulating input, to help children regulate their sensory responses during mealtimes. By creating a comfortable and supportive environment, we can help children overcome sensory aversions and develop positive associations with food.
We’ll collaborate with other professionals, such as our speech-language pathologists and dieticians, to ensure a comprehensive approach to feeding therapy. Our multidisciplinary team works together to address any underlying medical conditions, oral motor weaknesses, or swallowing difficulties that may be hindering a child’s feeding abilities.
Our Occupational Therapy team offers comprehensive feeding therapy services to children in various Ohio areas, including Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, Toledo, Perrysburg, and Youngstown – Northern Kentucky, and Tampa, Florida. Our certified occupational therapists works collaboratively to help children overcome feeding difficulties and establish a positive relationship with food.
Why Choose McKibben & Monte?
- Expertise: Our Occupational Therapists are highly trained in assessing and supporting children with feeding difficulties. We employ evidence-based techniques to improve their eating skills and food acceptance.
- Individualized Plans: We recognize that each child’s feeding challenges are unique. Our therapy plans are personalized to address their specific difficulties and goals.
- In-School Convenience: We provide our services directly in your child’s school, ensuring that therapy is easily accessible and integrated into their daily routine.
- Collaboration: We work closely with parents, caregivers, and other professionals to ensure that our therapy aligns with the child’s overall development and nutritional goals.
- Progress Tracking: Our focus is on helping children build confidence and competence in feeding. We monitor progress and celebrate every step towards a healthy relationship with food.
Getting Started
If you believe that your child may benefit from feeding therapy or if you’re seeking professional guidance to address their feeding difficulties, reach out to us today. Contact us to schedule an evaluation. Our Occupational Therapy team will work closely with you to understand your child’s needs and create a personalized plan to support their journey towards a positive relationship with food.
Join Us in Nourishing Your Child’s Confidence
At McKibben & Monte, we believe that every child deserves to have a healthy relationship with food. Our feeding therapy services aim to empower children with the confidence and skills they need to enjoy a nourishing and fulfilling relationship with the world of food.
McKibben & Monte – Where Healthy Eating Matters