A feeding evaluation is a comprehensive assessment that identifies the underlying causes of a child's feeding difficulties. The evaluation may include a review of the child's medical history, a feeding observation, a sensory evaluation, and a mealtime assessment. The goals of the evaluation are to determine the child's strengths and weaknesses related to feeding, identify any underlying medical or developmental issues, and develop a personalized treatment plan to address the child's needs. The evaluation is an important first step in the feeding therapy process and helps ensure that the child receives the most effective treatment for their feeding difficulties.
Feeding therapy is a specialized plan designed to help children overcome feeding difficulties and develop healthy eating habits. The treatment is tailored to the child's specific needs and may involve a variety of techniques, such as oral motor exercises, sensory integration, behavioral modification, and nutrition counseling. The goal of feeding treatment is to help children become more comfortable with different textures and flavors of food, improve their oral motor skills, and develop positive associations with eating. Feeding treatment is often a long-term process that requires patience, persistence, and a collaborative effort between the child, their caregivers, and the treatment team.