A Compassionate Approach to Handling Feed Disorders
Have your family mealtimes started to feel like a battleground? Having a child who struggles with eating–whether due to sensory or physical issues–can be incredibly difficult. You may worry your child isn’t getting all the nutrients they need to grow and develop. Fortunately, the pediatric occupational therapists at Flourishing Lives can help.
We offer a child-focused approach to addressing food aversions and feeding disorders. Schedule an appointment at our St. Clair Shores and Rochester, MI, clinic today to get started.
Understanding Feeding Disorders
Firstly, it’s important to recognize that feeding disorders are distinct from eating disorders, although both involve restricting food intake. Eating disorders include symptoms related to body image, such as body dysmorphia or negative self-talk. Feeding disorders do not.
Instead, feeding disorders usually stem from sensory issues–for example, your child might find the texture too mushy or the taste too strong. In some cases, feeding disorders might stem from oral motor difficulties.
However, feeding disorders are also not quite the same as being a “picky eater.” While the symptoms are similar, a picky eater’s eating habits are much less extreme than those of a child with a feeding disorder.
Here are some signs that your child might have a feeding disorder:
- Willing to eat less than 20 foods
- Refusing to eat entire food groups
- Choking, gagging, or vomiting when eating
- Throwing tantrums at mealtime
- Not eating problem foods even when hungry
How Occupational Therapy Treats Feeding Disorders and Food Aversions
If you suspect your child has a feeding disorder or is showing signs of a severe food aversion, it’s important to schedule an appointment with our pediatric occupational therapists. Letting a feeding disorder go untreated can result in nutritional deficiencies, but it’s important to address the issue in a compassionate, child-guided manner.
During our sessions, we’ll work with your child to pinpoint the source of their food aversions, then provide customized treatments that address those issues one step at a time. For example, we might have a teddy bear picnic to make food feel fun, even as we expose your child to unfamiliar foods.
We’ll also provide guidance and strategies that you can use at home. We emphasize positive reinforcement and small steps. Even something as simple as having an unfamiliar food on your child’s plate can make a big difference–even if they never eat a bite.
At Flourishing Lives, we want to help nurture a love of healthy, diverse foods in your child. Call us today to learn more!
Begin Your Journey To A Flourishing Life
Easy Steps To Start Transforming Your Life Today
Ready to take the first step towards a more fulfilling life? At Flourishing Lives, starting is as simple as reaching out. Our compassionate team is ready to guide you through our straightforward evaluation process, creating a customized plan tailored to you or your loved one’s unique needs. Let’s embark on this transformative journey together
EVALUATION
Work side by side with our team to learn how we can help you and your family thrive using our FL Method that is rooted in a play based approach.
TREATMENT
30-60+ Sessions
Customized Plan
1-3 Sessions Per Week.
Therapeutic breaks from Treatment as Recommended.
Consultative Services/Membership
Become a part of our family to get tips, tricks and help other families through a community and collaboration.