FEEDING DISORDERS

Feeding difficulties are relatively common among most children but can be especially troublesome for children with special needs. There are multiple causes for feeding difficulties such as: nervous system disorders, like cerebral palsy or meningitis; reflux or other stomach problems; being premature or having a low birth weight; heart disease; cleft lip or palate; breathing problems, like asthma or other diseases; autism; head and neck problems; muscle weakness in the face and neck; medicines that make them sleepy or not hungry; sensory issues; and behavior problems.

A child may be a picky eater and consume a limited number of foods, but the foods eaten span all the food groups and provide a well-balanced diet, but a child with a feeding disorder may only eat a few foods, completely avoiding entire food groups, textures or liquids necessary for proper development. As a result, children diagnosed with feeding disorders are at greater risk for compromised physical and cognitive development. Children with feeding disorders may also develop slower, experience behavioral problems and even fail to thrive. Severe feeding disorders can cause children to feel socially isolated and often put financial strains on families.

I am a SOS (Sequential Oral Sensory) Program trained feeding therapist. 

Like other disorders and illnesses of young children, treatment should involve a diverse team of experts such as the following:

  • Psychologist
  • Speech Language Pathologist
  • Occupational Therapists
  • Physical Therapist
  • Social worker
  • Nutritionist
  • Primary care physician


Please feel free to contact me!

Office Hours

Cygnet Psychological Services

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