Feeding therapy isn’t about counting bites—it’s about building trust. We slow things down, attune to your child’s cues, and explore food in ways that feel safe and joyful.
Eating can be a source of nourishment and fun, but for many families, mealtimes feel stressful and overwhelming. Whether your child is struggling with picky eating, sensory sensitivities, or difficulty chewing and swallowing, feeding therapy provides gentle support to make mealtimes easier and more positive.
This might mean playing with pretend food on the floor, taking a break from food altogether to focus on connection, or reimagining mealtime routines so they feel less overwhelming. We believe that progress with feeding doesn’t mean rushing—it means creating positive experiences that last. Every step, whether it’s touching a new food or taking a first bite, is worth celebrating.
About Feeding Therapy
We look at the whole picture—medical history, sensory needs, language, and past experiences—because feeding is never just about what’s on the plate.
You might be wondering…
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Bottle and breastfeeding support
Starting solids
Support for ARFID and picky eating
Tube weaning (in collaboration with your medical team)
Play-based feeding therapy
Dysphagia and swallowing support
Support for autistic and neurodivergent eaters
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Feeding therapy may be beneficial if you notice your child:
Eats a very limited range of foods
Gags or coughs while eating
Has a feeding tube and is looking to expand their oral feeding
Avoids certain textures or food groups
Has trouble transitioning from bottles/purees to solids
Shows stress or anxiety at mealtimes
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Our approach focuses on creating a safe, encouraging environment where children can explore food at their own pace. Therapy may include:
Oral motor and swallowing support – strengthening muscles for chewing and swallowing
Sensory-based strategies – helping children feel more comfortable with different textures, smells, and tastes
Play-based support- making mealtime fun in order to help food feel more safe to explore
Expanding variety – slowly introducing new foods in playful, non-pressured ways
Parent support – coaching families on strategies to use at home, so progress continues outside of sessions
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Feeding therapy is child-led and pressure-free. Sessions may involve play with food, fun tasting activities, and gradual steps toward eating a wider variety. Parents are active participants, learning tools to make mealtimes calmer and more enjoyable. We work closely with the medical team to make sure that we are assessing all aspects of feeding and what may be impacting their mealtimes.
“Our goal with feeding therapy is to shift from pressure to presence. A child who feels safe can explore, connect, and eventually grow their relationship with food on their own terms.”
— Erin Forward
More Services for Families
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Speech Therapy
Helping children find their voice and express themselves with confidence.
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DIR®/Floortime
Building relationships through play to foster emotional, social, and developmental growth.
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Caregiver Coaching
Guiding parents with practical tools and compassion so they feel confident and supported.