Feeding therapy
Feeding
Support for eating, drinking and calmer mealtimes.
What it is
Feeding involves the skills children use to suck, chew, bite, drink and manage different food textures, as well as how comfortable they feel around food.
Some children eat a very small range of foods, find new textures difficult, or take a long time to eat. This can be stressful for the whole family, and it is not caused by poor parenting.
Feeding therapy builds skills and comfort gradually and respectfully, without forcing or pressure. We often work alongside a GP, paediatrician, dietitian or occupational therapist.
Signs to look for
A very small range of foods
Your child eats fewer than 20 foods, or drops foods and does not add new ones.
Difficulty with textures
Gagging, spitting out or refusing lumpy, crunchy or mixed textures.
Chewing and drinking
Your child finds it hard to chew, drink from a cup or straw, or eats very slowly.
Stressful mealtimes
Mealtimes often end in tears, battles or separate meals.
How we can help
Feeding assessment
We look at oral motor skills, sensory preferences and mealtime routines.
Gentle, responsive therapy
We build comfort and skills step by step, following your child's pace.
Mealtime strategies
Practical ideas to reduce pressure and make mealtimes more enjoyable.
Team approach
With your consent, we work with your child's other health professionals.
Common questions from parents
Is my child just a fussy eater?
Many young children go through a fussy stage. It may be worth an assessment if your child eats a very small range of foods, gags often, or mealtimes cause significant stress.
Will you make my child eat foods they do not like?
No. We use a gentle, responsive approach that never forces food. Progress follows your child's comfort.
Do you help with swallowing difficulties?
If there are concerns about safe swallowing, such as coughing or choking during meals, please speak with your GP first. We will guide you on the right next step.
Not sure whether this is the right service? Contact us and we will talk it through, or read our frequently asked questions and fees and funding.