Autism Archives - Autism Centers Of Utah

What Happens in a Feeding Therapy Session? A Parent’s Guide

by mav admin | Jul 31, 2025 | Autism, Services

Starting a feeding therapy session in Utah can feel overwhelming for parents. Many families aren’t sure what to expect, what tools will be used, or how their child’s goals will be addressed. At Autism Centers of Utah, we want to make the process simple and supportive by giving you a clear walkthrough of what happens during a typical feeding therapy session.

Whether you’re preparing for your first visit or looking to better understand the process, this guide will help you feel confident and ready.

Why Feeding Therapy Matters

A feeding therapy session in Utah focuses on helping children develop safe, enjoyable, and effective eating skills. Many children face challenges such as picky eating, oral motor delays, or sensory sensitivities that make mealtimes stressful. With the right support, these challenges can be turned into progress.

Our clinic offers comprehensive feeding therapy in Utah designed to address these issues and help families find mealtime success.

At Autism Centers of Utah, we also integrate the principles of ABA therapy in Utah to ensure every child’s unique needs are met.

What to Expect in a Feeding Therapy Session

For new families, the first session is all about comfort and understanding. Parents often ask, “What happens once we walk through the doors?” Here’s a step-by-step look at what you can expect:

1. Warm Welcome & Introduction

Your child’s therapist will begin with a friendly greeting to make your child feel safe and at ease. We’ll review your child’s medical and developmental history to better understand their needs.

2. Therapist Goals & Planning

Together with you, the therapist will set clear goals. These therapy goals may include:

Expanding food variety
Improving chewing and swallowing
Reducing gag reflex sensitivity
Encouraging independent feeding

This individualized planning is a key part of our feeding therapy services in Utah.

3. Sensory Tools for Comfort

Many children struggle with textures, smells, or visual aspects of food. That’s why our therapists use specialized sensory tools such as vibrating spoons, textured chewables, and calming strategies to support progress.

4. Oral Motor Exercises

During each feeding therapy session in Utah, therapists may incorporate oral motor exercises that strengthen muscles needed for chewing, swallowing, and speech. These exercises are fun and engaging, often disguised as playful activities.

5. Session Structure & Parent Involvement

A typical session includes:

Warm-up activities to ease your child into the environment
Structured feeding tasks tailored to their goals
Sensory and oral motor skill-building
Wrap-up discussion so you can continue strategies at home

Parents are encouraged to observe and participate so that strategies from feeding therapy in Utah can also be used at home.

How ABA Therapy Supports Feeding Therapy

One of the biggest advantages of starting a feeding therapy session in Utah with our team is that we combine proven ABA therapy in Utah with feeding interventions. ABA strategies help reinforce positive eating behaviors, build routines, and celebrate small successes.

To see how these approaches are combined in practice, visit our ABA-based feeding therapy program.

Why Choose Autism Centers of Utah

When looking for a reliable provider for a feeding therapy session in Utah, families across the state trust Autism Centers of Utah. With experienced therapists, evidence-based practices, and family-centered care, we are dedicated to supporting your child’s growth.

Autism Centers of Utah
8851 South Sandy Parkway, Suite 100
Sandy, UT 84070
(801) 464-4077

You can explore more about us on our Autism Centers of Utah website and see the details of our feeding therapy services.

Taking the First Step

Beginning a feeding therapy session in Utah is a big step toward improving mealtimes and helping your child thrive. With the right session structure, carefully chosen sensory tools, and effective oral motor exercises, progress is not just possible — it’s expected.

If you’re ready to learn more, visit our feeding therapy Utah services page or contact us today through our official website.

Final Thoughts

Parents often feel anxious about what a feeding therapy session in Utah will look like. But once you see the caring approach, structured plan, and hands-on support, you’ll know your child is in the right place. Together, we can make mealtimes positive, healthy, and stress-free.

Ready to get started? Reach out to Autism Centers of Utah and discover how our team can help your child succeed.

Exploring the Benefits of Feeding Therapy for Children with Autism

by mav admin | Jul 27, 2025 | Applied Behavior Analysis, Autism

Feeding challenges are common among children with autism, and they can affect everything from nutrition and health to mealtimes at home and school. At Autism Centers of Utah, we understand how stressful feeding difficulties can be for both children and their families—which is why our specialized feeding therapy programs are designed to make mealtimes easier, more enjoyable, and more successful for everyone involved.

Whether your child struggles with a limited diet, sensory aversions, or behavioral feeding concerns, our expert therapists offer compassionate and evidence-based support in a state-of-the-art, child-friendly environment.

What Is Feeding Therapy?

Feeding therapy is a structured, therapeutic approach to improving a child’s relationship with food. It goes beyond simply encouraging a child to eat more—it focuses on building positive experiences with food, improving oral-motor skills, addressing sensory sensitivities, and fostering independence at mealtimes.

At Autism Centers of Utah, our feeding therapy team includes occupational therapists, behavior analysts, and feeding specialists who work together to tailor each session to your child’s unique needs.

Common Feeding Challenges We Address:

Extreme food selectivity or “picky eating”
Refusing entire food groups
Gagging, choking, or difficulty chewing/swallowing
Avoidance of certain textures, temperatures, or smells
Difficulty transitioning to table foods
Anxiety around mealtimes or new foods
Reliance on specific brands or food presentations

Feeding challenges can stem from a combination of behavioral, sensory, and motor factors—which is why our collaborative team approach is so effective.

Why Feeding Therapy Is Important

Many parents are told “they’ll grow out of it,” but the truth is, without targeted support, feeding difficulties can persist—and even worsen—over time. Children who struggle with eating may face:

Poor nutrition or growth delays
Gastrointestinal discomfort
Mealtime battles and anxiety
Social challenges during shared meals at school or events

By addressing these issues early, we can help prevent long-term consequences and make food a positive part of your child’s life.

What to Expect at Autism Centers of Utah

Our feeding therapy takes place in a supportive, sensory-aware setting designed to help children feel safe and empowered. Here’s what you can expect from our program:

Individualized treatment plans based on a thorough evaluation
Family involvement in sessions and at-home strategies for success
Collaboration between BCBAs, OTs, and feeding specialists
Gentle exposure techniques that never force or pressure children
Focus on skill-building, like utensil use, chewing, and food exploration

Feeding therapy is often integrated with other services, such as ABA therapy and occupational therapy, for a more holistic approach to your child’s development.

Helping Your Child Build a Healthy Relationship with Food

At Autism Centers of Utah, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to enjoy food, grow strong, and participate in family meals with confidence. If mealtimes have become a source of stress in your home, our feeding therapy program may be the solution you’ve been searching for.

Let’s make mealtimes better—together.

Contact Autism Centers of Utah to learn more about our personalized feeding therapy services and schedule an initial consultation. We’re here to support your child’s journey to a happier, healthier life—one bite at a time.

How ABA Therapy Helps Children Thrive in the Summer Months

by mav admin | Jul 27, 2025 | Applied Behavior Analysis, Autism

Summer is a season of sunshine, play, and new experiences—but for many families with children on the autism spectrum, the lack of structure and routine during these months can bring added stress. At Autism Centers of Utah, we understand how important consistency is for our clients, and that’s why our ABA therapy programs are designed to support children year-round—even when school is out.

Why Summer Matters in ABA Therapy

During the school year, children often have set schedules and built-in social and learning opportunities. But when summer break begins, that structure disappears, potentially impacting behavioral progress and emotional regulation. ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapy can bridge that gap and provide continuity, helping children stay on track developmentally and emotionally.

At Autism Centers of Utah, our summer ABA programs are individualized for each child, ensuring they continue to work on important skills in a fun, supportive environment.

Benefits of Summer ABA at Autism Centers of Utah

1. Continued Learning in a Flexible Setting

Our team of BCBAs and RBTs work closely with families to develop plans that support a child’s specific needs and goals—whether it’s improving communication, reducing challenging behaviors, or building independence. With no school schedule to compete with, summer can be the perfect time to increase therapy hours and make progress in key areas.

2. Personalized Support—Anywhere

We offer ABA therapy at our state-of-the-art therapy center, in the comfort of your home, in schools, or even out in the community. This flexibility is especially helpful during summer when families may be traveling or adjusting routines. Therapy can follow the child wherever they are, reinforcing skills in real-world settings.

3. Opportunities for Social Skills Building

Summer is filled with potential for peer interaction—whether at the park, during a family barbecue, or on a group outing. Our ABA therapists help children develop essential social skills like taking turns, greeting others, and participating in group activities. These skills are not only practiced in sessions but also generalized to daily life.

4. Support for Parents and Caregivers

We know parents are often juggling work, childcare, and summer plans. Our team offers guidance, coaching, and consistent communication so parents feel empowered and supported throughout the summer months. We’re not just here for the kids—we’re here for you, too.

Build a Stronger Foundation This Summer

At Autism Centers of Utah, our mission is to help children with autism and developmental delays grow with confidence. Our year-round ABA therapy services are just one way we ensure progress doesn’t pause when school lets out.
If you’re looking for a way to keep your child engaged, supported, and learning this summer, we’re here to help. Reach out to our team to schedule a consultation or learn more about our flexible summer therapy programs.

Ready to give your child a summer of growth and progress?

Contact Autism Centers of Utah today—we’d love to learn more about your family’s goals and how we can help!

Autism Centers of Utah: A Trusted Resource for Autism Spectrum Disorder Services

by mav admin | May 2, 2025 | Autism

When families receive an autism diagnosis for their child, they often face a wave of questions, worries, and decisions. What comes next? Where can they find trustworthy, expert care? At Autism Centers of Utah, families find not only answers but hope. As a leading provider of Autism Spectrum Disorder services, the center has earned its reputation as a trusted partner in helping children with autism grow, thrive, and reach their potential.

Located at 8851 South Sandy Parkway, Suite 100, Sandy, UT 84070, Autism Centers of Utah offers compassionate, evidence-based care that meets the needs of each child and family. With a team of dedicated professionals and a commitment to early intervention for autism, the center provides a wide range of specialized therapies designed to make a real difference.

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder and Its Impact

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition that affects how individuals communicate, behave, and interact with the world around them. It typically appears in early childhood and presents in a wide range of symptoms and abilities, making each child’s journey unique. Early diagnosis and access to professional Autism Spectrum Disorder services are critical to improving long-term outcomes.

At Autism Centers of Utah, the focus is on understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder and offering personalized care that helps children overcome challenges in communication, social interaction, and learning. Parents are not alone in this journey—the center becomes an essential partner in providing the support and tools families need.

Comprehensive Autism Spectrum Disorder Services We Offer

Autism Centers of Utah is proud to offer one of the most comprehensive selections of Autism Spectrum Disorder services in the state. Their goal is to provide tailored therapies that help each child develop the skills needed for success at home, at school, and in the community. Here’s a deeper look at the four primary services provided:

1. ABA Therapy

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is considered the gold standard in autism treatment. This evidence-based approach focuses on improving meaningful behaviors such as communication, social skills, play, academics, and daily living. ABA therapy uses positive reinforcement to help children learn new skills and reduce challenging behaviors.

At Autism Centers of Utah, ABA therapy is customized to meet the individual needs of each child. Whether it’s improving eye contact, enhancing language, or increasing independence in daily routines, ABA therapy forms the foundation of their autism intervention programs.

2. Speech Therapy

For many children with ASD, communication can be one of the biggest challenges. Some may have limited verbal skills, while others struggle with understanding social cues or expressing themselves effectively. Speech therapy at Autism Centers of Utah addresses these issues through personalized treatment plans.

The center’s ASD therapy services focus on improving articulation, expanding vocabulary, enhancing conversational skills, and developing nonverbal communication. Speech therapy empowers children to connect with their families, peers, and teachers, opening up a world of opportunity.

3. Feeding Therapy

Feeding difficulties are often overlooked but are a significant concern for many families. Children with autism may face challenges like food aversion, texture sensitivities, difficulty chewing or swallowing, or highly selective eating habits. Feeding therapy at Autism Centers of Utah helps children develop healthier eating patterns, improve nutrition, and create more positive mealtime experiences.

By offering this specialized service, the center demonstrates its commitment to providing autism care and therapy that addresses the whole child, including their physical health and well-being.

4. Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy plays a crucial role in helping children with autism improve their fine motor skills, sensory processing, and self-care abilities. From improving handwriting and buttoning a shirt to managing sensory sensitivities, occupational therapy empowers children to navigate their world with greater confidence.

Autism Centers of Utah’s occupational therapy program focuses on practical life skills, helping children become more independent in their daily lives. This essential service complements the center’s other Autism Spectrum Disorder services, ensuring children receive holistic, well-rounded care.

Why Families Trust Autism Centers of Utah

Specialized Services for Children with ASD

At Autism Centers of Utah, every child’s journey is unique. That’s why the center offers specialized services for children with ASD, ensuring each therapy plan is as individual as the child it serves. Whether a child needs behavioral therapy for autism, speech and language support, or sensory integration through occupational therapy, the center’s team is ready to help.

Experienced and Compassionate Team

The success of any treatment program depends on the people who deliver it. Autism Centers of Utah is proud of its team of highly trained therapists, behavior analysts, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and support staff. Their passion, expertise, and commitment to providing exceptional autism support services make all the difference in children’s lives.

Commitment to Early Intervention and Evidence-Based Treatment

Research shows that early intervention for autism leads to the best possible outcomes. Autism Centers of Utah is dedicated to using evidence-based autism treatment approaches that are backed by science and tailored to the unique needs of each child. Families can feel confident knowing their child is receiving the highest standard of care.

The Benefits of Comprehensive Autism Spectrum Disorder Services

By offering a wide range of services under one roof, Autism Centers of Utah delivers several important benefits:

Improved communication and social skills through speech and ABA therapy
Better behavior management with ABA and behavioral interventions
Enhanced sensory and motor skills with occupational therapy
Healthier eating habits and improved nutrition through feeding therapy
Greater family support with education, resources, and parent training

These outcomes create meaningful change not only for the child but for the entire family. Families report feeling more hopeful, supported, and empowered to help their child thrive.

Resources for Families with Autism

In addition to clinical services, Autism Centers of Utah provides resources for families with autism. Parent training sessions, support groups, and educational workshops help families gain a deeper understanding of ASD and equip them with tools to support their child at home and in the community.

Local Autism Support Services You Can Count On

If you’re searching for autism centers in Utah or Autism Spectrum Disorder centers near me, look no further than Autism Centers of Utah. As a provider of trusted autism services in Utah, the center serves families across the state, offering local autism support services that are accessible and family-centered.

Families are encouraged to contact the center for more information:

📍 8851 South Sandy Parkway, Suite 100, Sandy, UT 84070
📞 (801) 464-4077
🌐 autismcentersofutah.com

Take the First Step Toward Progress

Choosing the right provider for Autism Spectrum Disorder services can feel overwhelming, but Autism Centers of Utah is here to make that decision easier. With comprehensive services, expert staff, and a deep commitment to children and families, the center has become a trusted leader in the Utah autism community.

If you’re ready to explore autism diagnosis and treatment, access autism support for families, or get started with one of the center’s specialized therapy programs, reach out today. Together, we can help your child achieve brighter outcomes and a more fulfilling future.