Feeding Therapy Beyond "Picky Eating"
At Caprock Behavioral Solutions, we understand that mealtime can often be the most stressful part of a family’s day. When a child struggles with food selectivity, texture aversions, or oral-motor delays, it impacts more than just their nutrition—it affects the harmony of the entire household. Our pediatric feeding therapy program is designed to move beyond traditional "picky eating" by addressing the underlying behavioral and sensory barriers to a healthy, diverse diet.
Our Science-Based Approach to Nutrition
Using the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), our feeding specialists create a safe, systematic environment for children to explore new foods. We don't believe in "force-feeding"; instead, we utilize positive reinforcement and desensitization techniques to help children build a positive relationship with food.
Our pediatric feeding therapy focuses on several critical goals:
Increasing Variety
Gradually introducing new food groups, textures, and flavors to ensure a balanced nutritional intake.
Reducing Mealtime Disruptions
Addressing the "problem behaviors" (crying, throwing food, or leaving the table) that often accompany mealtime.
Oral-Motor Development
Working on the physical skills required for safe chewing.
Sensory Integration
Helping children process the smell, touch, and sight of new foods without a "fight or flight" response.
A Collaborative Safety Protocol
Safety is our absolute priority. Before beginning any feeding therapy, we work closely with the child's Physician or Pediatrician to rule out any underlying medical issues, such as GI discomfort or structural swallowing difficulties. Our BCBAs then craft a highly individualized plan that is monitored daily for progress and safety.
We believe that for feeding therapy to be successful, it must carry over into the home. Our team provides comprehensive parent training, showing you exactly how to implement these techniques at your own dinner table. Whether your family speaks English or Spanish, our Automatic Translation tools ensure that every instruction and progress report is fully understood, empowering you to lead your child toward a healthier future.
Take the Stress Out of Mealtime
If your child’s limited diet is causing concern for their health or growth, it may be time for a professional evaluation. At Caprock, we have the expertise to transform mealtime from a battleground into a bonding experience.