Blog
Previous Post
How to Make Mealtime Fun
Next Post
Why Play is Good for Your Mental Health
Myth 1: “Kids will grow out of it.”
While it's true that many children go through phases of fussiness with food, feeding and swallowing issues are not always something kids simply "grow out of." Delays in chewing, swallowing, or accepting a variety of textures could indicate underlying developmental concerns that need professional support. Early intervention with a speech-language pathologist (SLP) can help address these issues and prevent them from affecting a child’s overall nutrition, growth, and social development.
Myth 2: “All kids are picky eaters.”
Picky eating is a common phase, but it’s not the same as a feeding disorder. If a child consistently avoids certain foods due to texture, taste, or sensory sensitivities, it may be a sign of a deeper issue. An SLP trained in feeding and swallowing can assess whether a child’s eating difficulties go beyond simple pickiness and help develop strategies to increase their food acceptance in a safe and healthy way.
Myth 3: “Occupational Therapy (OT) will work on that.”
While occupational therapists are wonderful at helping children with fine motor skills and sensory processing, speech-language pathologists specialize in feeding and swallowing therapy. SLPs are specifically trained to address the complex skills involved in safe and efficient eating and drinking. If your child is having difficulty with chewing, swallowing, or managing textures, an SLP is the expert to consult.
The Bottom Line:
Feeding and swallowing issues require attention, and addressing them early can make a significant difference in a child’s development and quality of life. If you have concerns, don’t wait for your child to “grow out of it.” Consult a speech-language pathologist who can provide specialized care and strategies tailored to your child's unique needs.
If you're interested in learning more about pediatric speech language therapy, visit this section of our website.
More by this contributor:
No items found.
Take Action
Not sure what the next step is? You can always call our Information Center to speak to a team member who can direct you to the support and answers you need.
Call Us: 412.420.2400
Comments (0)