Pediatric Feeding Therapy
Pediatric Feeing Therapy That Helps Kids Enjoy Mealtimes Again
Supporting children with feeding challenges through compassionate, evidence-based care.
When Picky Eating Becomes a Bigger Concern
Picky eating may seem common, but persistent feeding difficulties can sometimes indicate something more serious. If your child struggles with eating, mealtimes, or gaining weight, it could be a sign of a pediatric feeding disorder.
At Ivy Rehab for Kids, our therapists support children who experience difficulties or challenges with feeding, swallowing, chewing, or oral motor skills. Whether your child:
- Eats only a variety foods
- Avoids certain textures or food groups
- Has had feeding issues since infancy
We’re here to help make mealtimes more enjoyable – for everyone at the table.
Signs Your Child May Benefit from Feeding Therapy
Your child may benefit from an evaluation if they experience:
- Limited food variety (taste, texture, or food group)
- Strong aversions or sensory sensitivities
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Inconsistent weight gain or growth
- Ongoing feeding challenges since infancy
- Diagnosed with ARFID, aspiration, or penetration
- Challenges with mealtimes or snack times that impact social interactions or quality of life
How We Help
Our experienced speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and occupational therapists (OTs) specialize in evaluating and treating feeding and swallowing disorders. Every care plan is individualized based on your child’s needs, age, and developmental level.
Therapy may include:
- Fun, play-based interactions with food
- Oral motor strengthening activities
- Sensory integration strategies
- Parent coaching and support
- Collaboration with pediatricians, nutritionists, and care teams
- Telehealth support when in-person sessions aren’t possible
We meet your child where they are. Sometimes that means trying new foods, and sometimes it means just being around food in a positive way.
Why Ivy Rehab for Kids?
At Ivy Rehab for Kids, we believe feeding therapy is more than what’s on the plate. It’s about helping children:
- Feel safe and confident around food
- Build positive mealtime expereinces
- Develop lifelong skills at their own pace
Our experienced pediatric therapists take a collaborative, whole-child approach. We tailor each session to your child’s unique needs, preferences, and developmental stage – whether that means exploring new tastes or simply feeling more comfortable at the table. We’re here to support your child’s progress and your peace of mind, every step of the way.
Feeding challenges are more common than you might think:
- Up to 50% of children with autism
- And as many as 80% of children with developmental delays experience feeding difficulties.
You’re not alone, and we’re here to help.
FAQs
Is feeding therapy covered by insurance?
Feeding therapy is often covered by insurance, especially when recommended by a pediatrician and tied to a medical diagnosis. Ivy Rehab can help verify your insurance benefits and guide you through the process before starting therapy.
What age should a child start feeding therapy?
Children can begin feeding therapy as early as infancy, especially if they show signs of difficulty with bottle or breast feeding. Toddlers and older children may benefit from therapy if they struggle with food aversions, texture sensitivities, or mealtime anxiety.
What happens during a pediatric feeding therapy session?
A typical session includes fun, play-based activities designed to improve your child’s comfort with food. Therapists may focus on oral motor exercises, sensory play, and gradual exposure to new foods—all tailored to your child’s developmental level and feeding goals.
What is the goal of feeding therapy for children?
Feeding therapy helps children develop safe, age-appropriate eating and swallowing skills. It focuses on improving oral motor coordination, sensory tolerance, and mealtime behaviors to make eating safer and more enjoyable for kids and their families.
Let’s Get Started
Feeding challenges don’t have to be a lifelong struggle. Contact us today for a comprehensive evaluation, and let’s make mealtimes easier together.