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 Root Pediatrics in Bozeman, MT can help.
We offer a child-focused approach to addressing food aversions and feeding difficulties. Schedule an appointment 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 in children often include symptoms related to body image, such as body dysmorphia or negative self-talk. Feeding disorders do not include these symptoms.
Instead, feeding difficulties 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
Feeding can be challenging for children. It’s a complex process that involves all our organs, muscles, and senses. This complexity is coordinated by different parts of the brain, requiring a lot of effort.
If your child faces feeding difficulties, our pediatric occupational therapists at Root Pediatrics can help. We offer assessments, treatment, and strategies for at-home care. Our approaches consider the physical, psychosocial, and environmental aspects of eating. We focus on your child’s strengths and work on sensory processing, oral motor skills, posture, fine motor skills, behavior, and creating an engaging eating environment.
Take The First Steps Today!
Feeding is intricate, and if you’re struggling, our occupational therapists are here to assist your child in achieving their feeding goals. For more information, schedule an appointment today.