At Connecting Together Occupational Therapy, we understand that feeding is not just about nourishment; it's a fundamental aspect of a child's development. We are excited to offer comprehensive feeding therapy as part of our holistic approach to enhancing children's lives. Our focus goes beyond addressing the mechanics of eating; we delve into the functional implications that surround feeding, emphasizing a strengths-based perspective to empower both children and caregivers.
Feeding isn't a solitary act; it's a beautifully intricate dance that involves the environment, relationships, sensory needs, and textures. Our feeding therapy program is designed to address the whole picture, considering how each element influences a child's feeding experience.
Environment: The setting in which a child eats can significantly impact their willingness to try new foods. We work closely with families to create a positive, comfortable, and supportive eating environment. From mealtime routines to the atmosphere at the table, we believe that fostering a safe and enjoyable space sets the stage for successful feeding.
Relationships: The bonds formed during mealtime are precious. Our feeding therapy emphasizes building positive relationships around food. We recognize the role that caregivers play in a child's feeding journey and provide guidance to create a nurturing connection during meals. Together, we celebrate each victory and encourage a sense of achievement that strengthens the child's confidence.
Sensory Needs: Sensory experiences are intertwined with feeding. A child's response to different tastes, textures, and temperatures can greatly influence their willingness to try new foods. Our feeding therapy helps identify sensory sensitivities and gradually introduces new sensory experiences. We respect each child's unique sensory profile and provide strategies to make mealtime less overwhelming.
Textures: Texture aversion can be a significant challenge for many children. Our feeding therapy focuses on gradually expanding a child's acceptance of various textures, ensuring they can comfortably enjoy a diverse range of foods. We take a strengths-based approach, acknowledging small progressions and providing tools to overcome textural challenges.
At Connecting Together Occupational Therapy, our feeding therapy is rooted in a strengths-based approach. We believe that every child has inherent strengths, and our role is to nurture and amplify those strengths to promote growth and development. We work collaboratively with families, recognizing their unique expertise as caregivers, and provide tailored strategies that build upon these strengths. Our goal is to empower both the child and the caregivers, creating a partnership where everyone contributes to the child's success. By embracing a strengths-based perspective, we foster a positive atmosphere that celebrates accomplishments, no matter how small, and encourages ongoing progress. Feeding therapy at Connecting Together Occupational Therapy is more than just addressing the mechanics of eating; it's about embracing the entire feeding experience with a holistic and strengths-based perspective. We recognize the significance of the environment, relationships, sensory needs, and textures in a child's feeding journey.
We invite you to explore the transformative possibilities of our feeding therapy program. Visit our website at www.connecting-together.co.nz to learn more about our services. Together, we can empower your child to develop a healthy relationship with food, achieve feeding milestones, and celebrate the joy of shared mealtimes.
Melissa Walker-Tate
Occupational Therapy
Connecting Together.