Pediatric Feeding Disorders: Oral Motor or Sensory?

Feeding difficulties can have different underlying causes. Early identification and a referral can help children develop safer, more successful mealtime skills.

Oral Motor Red Flags

• Coughing or choking on food or drinks

• Difficulty chewing or managing tough foods

• Pocketing food in cheeks

• Chronic drooling

• Weak latch or clicking sounds (bottle/breast-feeding)

• Leaking or spilling of drinks/food from mouth/nose

Sensory Feeding Red Flags

• Fewer than 15 accepted foods

• Gagging or strong food refusal

• Avoids foods based on texture, smell, appearance, etc.

• Refuses whole groups (food textures/categories)

• Hides or covers eyes, mouth, or nose

• Losing accepted foods over time

When to Seek a Feeding Evaluation

Consider an evaluation when feeding difficulties impact your child's ability to:

• Meet nutritional needs and maintain adequate growth

• Eat and drink safely

• Participate comfortably in mealtimes

• Engage in family meals and daily routines

To learn more about our pediatric feeding therapy services and take the first step toward happier, healthier mealtimes, contact us!