The UW Speech and Hearing Clinic provides evaluation and treatment for children with feeding and swallowing difficulties. These challenges can affect a child’s ability to eat safely, accept a variety of foods, or participate comfortably in mealtimes. Some children may be especially sensitive to the textures, tastes, temperatures, or smells of foods, which can make eating feel overwhelming or unpredictable.
Feeding and swallowing require coordination of multiple muscles and systems, and difficulties can range from mild to more complex concerns.
What We Offer
Services are individualized and may include:
- Assessment of feeding and swallowing skills
- Support for safe eating and drinking
- Strategies to improve chewing and swallowing
- Guidance for expanding food variety and textures
- Support for positive mealtime routines
Our Approach
We use a family-centered, supportive approach that focuses on creating positive and successful mealtime experiences. Therapy is tailored to each child’s needs and includes practical strategies for caregivers to use at home.
Who May Benefit
Pediatric feeding and swallowing services may be helpful for children who:
- Have difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Avoid certain textures or food groups
- Cough, gag, or choke during meals
- Have medical or developmental conditions affecting feeding
