Feeding Therapy

Peaceful mealtimes, one step at a time

Gentle, supportive feeding therapy that helps neurodivergent children build a healthy relationship with food—and gives your family calmer, happier mealtimes.

Understanding Feeding Therapy

Feeding is about more than nutrition—it\'s about comfort, sensory experience, and connection. We help children explore food at their own pace, without pressure.

Our feeding therapy is gentle and neurodiversity-affirming. We don\'t force, bribe, or punish. We address the sensory and motor aspects of eating while keeping the experience positive and stress-free for your child. Mealtimes should feel safe, not scary.

Parents are central. We teach you strategies you can use at home so progress doesn\'t depend only on sessions. Our goal is a child who feels okay around food—and a family that can sit down to meals without dread.

Child in feeding therapy

What is Feeding & Swallowing Therapy

Our team of therapists helps individuals who have difficulty with biting, chewing, swallowing, eating food, and drinking liquids.

Mealtimes should feel safe, connected, and enjoyable. Our Feeding Therapy Team works closely with children and caregivers to understand the root of feeding and swallowing difficulties and gently helps children feel more comfortable with food, learn safe eating skills, try new foods with confidence, and make mealtimes happier for the whole family.

When do you go for Feeding Therapy?

If mealtime feels stressful or frustrating, you're not alone — and support is available. When you feel the child:

  • Avoids certain textures (soft, hard, smooth, creamy, juicy, crunchy, etc.)
  • Having trouble biting or chewing, or moving food in the mouth
  • Refusing entire food groups (such as rice with curries or dal or curd, fruits, vegetables, nuts, juices)
  • Gags, chokes, or coughs during meals
  • Has strong reactions to certain textures, smells, or temperatures
  • Takes a very long time to finish meals
  • Pocketing the food in the cheeks
  • Avoids self-eating or struggles with independent eating
  • Struggles with using spoons, forks, straws
  • Becoming upset, anxious, or distressed at mealtimes
  • Doesn't gain weight
  • Shows growth concerns

In Feeding assessment, We Will:

  • Review your child's medical and developmental history
  • Discuss current feeding challenges
  • Assess muscle strength and movement involved in eating and swallowing
  • Assess different kinds of textured food
  • Observe posture, behaviour, and oral movements during eating and drinking

Benefits of Feeding Therapy

  • Trying new foods – helping your child explore different tastes and textures
  • Easier and safer eating – your child can chew and swallow with more confidence
  • Happier mealtimes – less stress and more enjoyment around food
  • Peace of mind for parents – reduced worry about choking or gagging
  • Better growth and nutrition – supporting your child's health and development
  • Stronger family routines – making mealtimes calm, positive, and connected

Our integrated approach blends neurodevelopmental, sensory, oral-motor, and relationship-based strategies to create lasting, positive change at the table.

How Feeding Therapy Helps Your Child and Family

Less stress at the table, more confidence with food, and a family that can enjoy mealtimes together.

A positive relationship with food

We help children explore textures, tastes, and mealtime in a low-pressure way. Feeding becomes less stressful and more about curiosity and connection—not force or fear.

Sensory and motor support

Feeding involves sensation, movement, and coordination. We address the sensory and motor pieces gently, so your child can progress at their own pace while feeling safe.

Calmer mealtimes for the whole family

Parents learn practical strategies that reduce anxiety at the table. When the pressure comes off, everyone can enjoy meals more—and progress often follows.

Nutrition and growth with peace of mind

We work toward better variety and intake when that's a goal, while keeping the focus on the child's comfort and the family's wellbeing—not just numbers on a chart.

How We Work Together

From understanding your story to gentle sessions and home support—we walk with you step by step.

01

Assessment and family goals

We listen to your story—what mealtimes look like, what your child will and won't try, and any medical or sensory factors. Together we set goals that feel realistic and respectful of your child.

02

Gentle, play-based feeding therapy

Sessions are non-pressured and often play-led. We introduce new foods and experiences slowly, honouring your child's cues. You're invited to join so strategies carry over to home.

03

Home strategies and progress together

We give you clear, practical ways to support feeding at home. We check in regularly, adjust the plan as needed, and celebrate small wins so the whole family feels supported.

Signs of Progress

Progress in feeding can be gradual. Here are some of the positive changes families often notice as therapy continues.

Willingness to touch, smell, or try new foods in a relaxed way

Less anxiety or meltdowns around mealtimes

Expanded variety of foods your child accepts over time

More positive and calm family meals

Better confidence for you and your child around feeding

What Families Ask Us

Honest answers to the questions we hear most about feeding therapy.

Feeding therapy supports children who have difficulty with eating—whether that's picky eating, sensory aversions, fear of new foods, or challenges with chewing or swallowing. We use gentle, evidence-based approaches that respect your child's pace and reduce pressure.

No. We work with a range of feeding challenges—from selective eating and sensory sensitivity to more complex needs. If mealtimes are stressful or you're worried about your child's eating, we can discuss whether therapy is a good fit.

No. We do not use force, coercion, or punishment. Our approach is low-pressure and child-led. We create a safe, curious environment and follow your child's cues. Progress may be gradual, but it's built on trust.

We typically work in a space that includes a kitchen or eating area so we can practise real mealtime situations. We can discuss in-home options when that's helpful for your family.

Coverage varies by provider and sometimes by diagnosis. We can provide documentation for claims and discuss fees and payment options.

Ready for Calmer Mealtimes?

If feeding feels like a battle, we\'re here to help. Let\'s talk about how gentle feeding therapy can support your child and your family.

Gentle & Non-PressuredWe never force or punish
Sensory-AwareWe respect how your child experiences food
Family-CentredYou get strategies for home