What is Feeding and Swallowing Therapy?
Feeding and swallowing therapy utilizes strategies and techniques to support the rehabilitation/habilitation of pediatric feeding and swallowing disorders. It focuses on supporting growth, nutrition and hydration, the development of feeding activities with families, and ensuring safe swallowing with the aim of preventing choking and aspiration pneumonia.
30-80%
of children with developmental disorders have feeding problems.
(Arvedson, 2008; Brackett, Arvedson, & Manno, 2006; Lefton-Greif, 2008; Manikam & Perman, 2008)
5x
more likely for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to have feeding disorders compared with children who do not have ASD.
(Sharp et al., 2013)
Feeding and Swallowing Therapy Includes…
- Assessment and implementation of treatment plans from a licensed speech language pathologist
- Support safe and adequate nutrition and hydration
- Determine the optimum feeding methods and techniques to maximize swallowing safety and feeding efficiency
- Collaborate with family to incorporate dietary preferences
- Attain age-appropriate eating skills in the most normal setting and manner possible (e.g., eating and drinking during meals with peers in the preschool, meal time with family)
- Minimize the risk of pulmonary complications
- Maximize the child’s ability to maintain long term quality of life while improving their mental health
- Prevent future feeding issues with positive feeding-related experiences to the largest extent possible, given the child’s medical condition
Types of Feeding and Swallowing Disorders Include:
- Pediatric Dysphagia (aka Swallowing Disorder)
- Pediatric Feeding Disorder
- Tube Feeding Transition
- Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder
Crumbs and Smiles™ 