It Is Not A Phase
We all have certain foods we don't like for one reason or another. Most of the time, that reason is taste. However, some people avoid large categories of food all together. It is not healthy to constantly eat the same food all the time, even if it is the only thing you can get them to eat. People need a well balanced meal, and chronic picky eating will disrupt that balance. We can help with picky eating. We have developed programs and meal plans for parents that make it far easier at dinner time. You as a parent won't dread having to feed your child once you get our help with your picky eater. Schedule an appointment today. Picky eating is not a phase that should be ignored. Your child needs nutrition and that nutrition comes from all four food groups.
What Does a Feeding Therapist Do for Picky Eating?
A Feeding Therapist, often a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) or Occupational Therapist (OT) with specialized training in feeding, helps children who have difficulty accepting a variety of foods, textures, or eating routines. Picky eating can stem from sensory sensitivities, oral motor challenges, medical history, or limited exposure to new foods. Feeding therapy focuses on helping children feel safe and confident trying foods, improving chewing and swallowing skills, and building positive mealtime experiences. Therapy is child-centered and gradual — never force-based — and involves exploration, play, and consistent routine-building. The therapist works closely with families to support successful mealtimes at home and to expand the child’s diet in a comfortable and sustainable way.
Responsibilities of a Feeding Therapist Supporting Picky Eating:
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Assess oral motor skills, sensory preferences, mealtime behaviors, and food acceptance patterns
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Create a calm, supportive environment where food exploration is encouraged and pressure is reduced
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Introduce new foods slowly using play-based and sensory-based strategies
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Strengthen chewing, swallowing, and oral motor coordination when needed
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Support tolerance of different textures, temperatures, colors, and flavors
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Provide parents with strategies for structured routines and positive mealtime interactions
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Collaborate with physicians, nutritionists, and caregivers when medical or nutritional factors are involved
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Develop individualized feeding plans that promote comfort, confidence, and nutritional variety
