How many times has a loving adult or professional told you that your child’s eating difficulties are a sensory based “problem”? Yes, feeding IS a sensory experience AND it’s bigger than that. We all interact with the world and situations using our own individualized sensory identities. The ways in which we receive, interpret, and respond to sensory information within that is also constantly evolving. Sensory preferences are our brain’s learned protection and reaction to lived experiences, whether positive or negative.  

The same sensory identities and associations are evolving in children who are learning to eat! While we’re working toward helping children become happy and healthy oral eaters, we must first devote time and energy to understanding WHO the child is and HOW they relate to the world through their sensory experiences before we try to change them. This is crucial to figuring out who your child is from a sensory standpoint. We must examine and consider the context such that we’re maximizing ease, comfort, trust, and peace BEFORE we increase the challenge or try to expand their diet/oral intake. 

This is where motivation and autonomy play a key role. Giving the child control over how and when something occurs (such as eating) can significantly influence how they perceive the experience and how prepared their body is to engage in it. It’s only once a child has learned that they can be safe, comfortable, and stable that they can expand and have new experiences to help override old ones. This is a CHILD led process, one where we continue to accept where they are, no matter what. It may take time on the front end but also helps with success in the longer term. 

** Please remember this podcast is NOT meant to replace the support and guidance of your child's medical team.  Consult with your doctor before starting the weaning process.** 

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