Exploring the Benefits of Feeding Therapy for Children with 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.
