Post Frenectomy Care

Feeding disorders are very common. Though it is hard to quantify, “[a]pproximately 20-50% of normally developing children, and 70-89% of children with developmental disabilities” (1) have a feeding disorder. How does this happen so frequently?!

According to Dr. Kay Toomey’s research and reviews of other studies, of children who have feeding disorders, between 65-95% of cases are caused by both behavioral and natural, organic causes (2017) (2). In other words, more often than not, a feeding disorder is not just behavioral! For example, a child that has undiagnosed reflux or allergies has learned to refuse food, because they have learned that food causes them to have an upset stomach. They may continue to refuse food even after receiving treatment for the initial physiological problem. A child that has choked on some solids because of undiagnosed oral dysphagia will begin to only eat liquid and purees to avoid choking. A child that is refusing crunchy foods could have sensory processing disorder and benefit from desensitization. A child that is having a hard time breathing will refuse food in order to get enough oxygen to survive. The examples could go on and on. Every child is different, and needs to be diagnosed and treated holistically.

Some signs that may indicate your child could have a feeding disorder include:

• If your child eats less than 20 foods
• If mealtimes take more than 30 minutes
• If they refuse all of food of a certain texture or color, or are they having difficulty transitioning to solids
• If they are choking, coughing, or gagging while eating
• If they are demonstrating a lot of negative behaviors during meal times
• If they have difficulty with mealtime routines or have a hard time sitting at the table
• If they have difficulty chewing or swallowing (example: food left in their mouth after they’ve finished eating)

If you think your child could have a feeding disorder, or you feel that you’ve exhausted your options at home and don’t know where else to go, your child could likely benefit from a feeding evaluation and possibly feeding therapy. A pediatric feeding specialist can help you determine the cause, if a cause is present, make appropriate referrals, and plan the best course of treatment. Slowly, your child will become an adventurous and independent eater!

Sources:

1. 2013. June 13. Banchaun Benjasuwantep, Suthida Chaithirayanon, and  Monchutha Eiamudomkan. Feeding Problems in Healthy Young Children: Prevalence, Related Factors and Feeding Practices. Published online 2013 Jun 13. doi: 10.4081/pr.2013.e10
2. Toomey, Kay (2017). Top Ten Myths of Mealtime in America. SOS Approach to Feeding. https://sosapproach-conferences.com/resources/top-ten-myths-of-mealtime-in-america/

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Starting your Clinical Fellowship year is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming. Before you jump in, take a little time to reflect. Asking yourself the right questions now can help you find the best fit and start your career with confidence.

1. Who will my clients be?

Do you see yourself in pediatrics (schools, outpatient, hospital?) or working with adult patients (in the hospital, SNF, outpatient, or specializing?),? What areas draw you in? Articulation, AAC, literacy, language, or feeding? You don’t have to have it all figured out—but having a general direction helps.

2. What work environment fits me best?

Think about where you thrive! Do you prefer a fast-paced clinic , scheduling yourself in a school environment, or in home with your patients? Do you want to work closely with other professionals everyday or have more independence?

3. What kind of support do I need?

Your CF supervisor plays a huge role in your experience. Ask yourself: Do I want hands-on guidance? Frequent feedback? A team I can easily turn to with questions? An experienced mentor?

4. What do I want to learn this year?

Your CF isn’t just about completing hours—it’s about growing your skills. What do you want to feel confident in by the end of the year?

5. What are my non-negotiables?

Consider what matters most to you. Ask about caseload size (both appointments and number of patients/students whose cases you must manage), work-life balance, mentorship, or pay structure (W2 vs 1099). Knowing your priorities will help you make the right decision.

You can also ask about benefits! Some benefits make a big difference today like PTO, paid holidays (are they taken out of your PTO?), medical coverage, and more. Other will shape your future in a big way, like the retirement plan options.

6. How will I take care of myself?

This year can be demanding. Think about how you’ll manage stress, stay organized, and maintain balance so you can show up as your best self.

Your CF year is just the beginning. Taking time to reflect now can set you up for a more meaningful, supported, and successful start in the field. And if you can, find a mentor who will guide you through these sometimes-challenging questions.

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In the grand battle of dinnertime, where broccoli becomes a villain and picky eaters stage epic showdowns, there exists a team of superheroes ready to save the day—Pediatric Feeding Therapists! These mighty champions use their super skills to help babies, toddlers, and children with feeding challenges, ensuring every little hero gets the nutrition they need to grow strong.

The Origin Story: What is Pediatric Feeding Therapy?

Pediatric feeding therapy unites speech therapists, occupational therapists, and sometimes behavior analysts (yes, ABA superheroes!) to help children overcome feeding struggles. Whether it’s a sensory issue, difficulty with chewing, swallowing, or just a deep-seated dislike for anything green, these experts use science, patience, and fun strategies to turn mealtime mayhem into moments of mastery.

Many young heroes-in-training face powerful foes:

The Texture Titan – That sneaky foe who makes certain foods feel ‘icky’ or unbearable.

The Gag Goblin – The reason some kids struggle with new foods and textures.

The Avoidance Avenger – The mastermind behind food refusals and dinnertime battles.

The Autism Anomaly – Children with autism often experience heightened sensory challenges that impact eating habits.

Fear not! Early intervention in feeding therapy provides the best chance to defeat these villains before they gain strength. The sooner a child receives support, the more likely they are to develop healthy eating habits that last a lifetime.

In all seriousness, some pediatric feeding disorders are complex and often require a comprehensive approach individualized for each child and family. MetroEHS provides scheduling options dependent upon the family schedule and the severity of the diagnosis. All evaluations are performed by a Team of Feeding/Swallowing Specialists. MetroEHS Speech-Language Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, and Physical Therapists work in tandem with Parents to improve feeding and swallowing disorders.

The Power of Breastfeeding Support

For the tiniest superheroes just starting their feeding journey, breastfeeding support and lactation therapy can make a world of difference. Some babies face challenges with latching, tongue ties, or milk transfer, which can make feeding difficult and stressful for both baby and parent. Lactation consultants and feeding therapists work together to provide guidance on positioning, improving latch techniques, and addressing any underlying oral-motor issues. Early support ensures that even the youngest heroes get the nourishment they need to thrive from day one!

The Superpower of Early Intervention in Feeding Therapy

Early intervention is like unlocking a hidden superhero ability—striking before the villains take full control! The benefits of starting pediatric feeding therapy as soon as you suspect an impending battle or villainous origin story:

Building Healthy Eating Habits: Introducing a variety of foods early makes for a well-rounded diet.

Improving Oral-Motor Skills: Strengthening those tiny mouth muscles for better latch or better chewing and swallowing.

Reducing Mealtime Stress: No more dinnertime showdowns! Parents and children both enjoy a more relaxed experience.

Enhancing Independence: Teaching kids to confidently try new foods and textures on their own.

Assembling Your Feeding League

If your baby, toddler, or child struggles with eating, picky eating, or sensory issues, it’s time to call in the feeding therapy superheroes. ABA techniques, occupational therapy, and speech therapy can all work together to build confidence at mealtime.

Remember, every great hero starts somewhere and learns new skills best when they are small. With early intervention and the right team behind them, your little one can transform from a mealtime sidekick into a fearless food explorer!

Is your child ready to join the Feeding League? The adventure begins now!