Parenting comes with a very unique set of challenges, but especially for those with a child experiencing feeding disorders.
Sometimes, it can really be overwhelming. You may feel as a parent, at your wit’s end or even without hope, but you must not forget that you’re not alone.
With some patience, support, and appropriate strategies, you can lead your child through these difficulties and present a positive feeding experience for your child.
Here are some considerate and practical approaches to helping you support your child in feeding disorders in Dubai and other regions.
Understanding the Roots
Feeding disorders commonly have roots like sensory sensitivity, medical conditions, or developmental delay. The individual may become anxious about food.
Before implementing solutions, you must consult with a pediatrician, nutritionist, or feeding therapist to understand what might be causing your child’s struggles.
A professional assessment can help pinpoint whether the issue stems from a medical condition like reflux, sensory aversion, or even behavioral factors.
Create a Safe and Calm Mealtime Environment
Feeding disorder children thrive in an atmosphere that makes them feel safe and pressure-free. Try keeping meals relaxing and distraction-free. Keep the screen and other noisemakers off or low.
Instead of being obsessed with how much your kid is eating, enjoy the experience:
Praise little achievements. Encourage by celebrating attempts, such as touching and smelling.
Do not comment adversely about his eating behavior. This should be a light and enjoyable family activity instead of a stressful and disputing experience.
Gradual Introduction of New Foods
Having a child with feeding issues, it may look very challenging to introduce new foods. The trick is simple here. You need to take it slow and let them feel that they are in control.
Do not overdo it, simply introduce tiny portions of new foods but, don’t forget to let your kid enjoy their familiar or favorite foods.
It’s important to encourage interaction with the food first – meaning your child must be touching, smelling, or even just looking at it on their plate.
Do not force bites. Instead, celebrate small victories, such as licking the food or holding it in their hand.
This helps create trust and reduces anxiety around trying new things.
Engage Your Child in Food Preparation
Children are more likely to try foods if they themselves pick the food or participate in preparing the meals.
So, engage them to help with grocery shopping or picking out colorful fruits and vegetables.
Make them curious about the cooking process – ask for a little help, like washing the veggies or fruits, passing the bowls, or stirring a batter. These simple yet engaging kitchen tasks leave a profound impact on them. And, don’t forget to ask them to arrange food on a plate.
They will feel more comfortable with different textures and smells and more likely to enjoy the meals.
Focus on Positive Reinforcement, Not Pressure One of the most important strategies is to stay patient and consistent. Avoid pressuring your child to eat certain foods or finish their plate.
Instead, use positive reinforcement:
Celebrate small steps, like trying a bite or exploring a new texture.
Provide verbal reinforcement or low-value rewards for making progress.
Pressure typically creates resistance, so try to make food a positive experience.
Consult a Board-certified Feeding Therapist
Feeding disorders can be very challenging, and working with an expert can make all the difference. A feeding therapist will develop a plan that addresses your child’s specific needs.
Therapists commonly use playful methods and behavioral techniques to help children overcome sensory aversions, motor difficulties, or anxiety. By working with a professional, you are supporting your child while also empowering yourself with strategies and guidance.
Things to Keep in Mind
Change takes time, and every child’s journey is unique. So, celebrate small milestones, such as trying a new texture or sitting through an entire meal without distress.
Setbacks are so normal – what matters is consistency, love, and support. Show an abundance of love and support to your kid and provide them with the right tools and mindset to progress further.
Bottom Line
Parenting your child through feeding disorders in Dubai does not come easy, but with dedication and support from the specialists, it works out.
Hope AMC is with you on this journey. We have board-certified and dedicated feeding therapists who have been working with children with feeding and swallowing disorders.
Our therapists take a one-of-a-kind feeding therapy approach after assessing the root cause of the feeding disorders. We devise the therapy plan (involving parents/caregivers) with targeted strategies to help the kid enjoy meals or try out new food without difficulties.
Visit our official site or social media channels for more information. Schedule a consultation to discuss the condition of your kid!
