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FOCUS Therapy offers speech therapy, occupational therapy, ABA therapy, behavior consulting, feeding and swallowing therapy, and ADOS testing in Fort Myers to children of families throughout Southwest Florida, including Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Estero, Lehigh Acres, North Fort Myers, Fort Myers Beach, and more. Call (239) 313.5049 or Contact Us online.

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Fort Myers child feeding therapy

Child Feeding Therapy: Strategies for Healthy Eating & Nutrition

For many families of children with developmental delays and disorders, mealtime can be a source of significant stress and frustration. Challenges with feeding and swallowing are common among children diagnosed with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, sensory processing disorder, brain injuries, cleft palate, and those born prematurely. These difficulties can impact a child’s ability to receive proper nutrition, maintain a healthy weight, and enjoy mealtime experiences with family.

As a multidisciplinary pediatric therapy clinic in Fort Myers, Florida, we at FOCUS Therapy understand the complexity of feeding challenges. Our team of speech therapists in particular specializes in feeding and swallowing therapy, including the Sequential Oral Sensory (S.O.S.) Approach to Feeding for children with sensory-based eating difficulties.

Here, we’ll explore some common feeding issues among children, their underlying causes, and how feeding & swallowing therapy can help children overcome barriers to healthy eating.

Understanding Feeding Challenges in Children with Developmental Differences

Feeding difficulties can stem from a variety of causes, including physiological, sensory, and physical factors. Each child’s challenges may be unique, requiring individualized assessment and intervention.

Sensory-Related Feeding Challenges

Children with sensory processing difficulties, such as those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or sensory processing disorder (SPD), often experience extreme sensitivity to certain food textures, temperatures, colors, or smells. They may strongly prefer certain foods and avoid others, leading to an extremely restrictive diet that lacks necessary nutrients. Some children may gag or even vomit when presented with certain foods due to their sensory sensitivities.

The S.O.S. Approach to Feeding, which gradually desensitizes children to different food experiences in a playful and non-threatening way, is often beneficial for these children.

Physiological and Medical Feeding Challenges

Certain medical conditions impact a child’s ability to safely swallow or properly digest food. For example:

  • Cleft palate can cause difficulties with sucking and swallowing.
  • Premature birth often leads to immature oral motor development, increasing the risk of feeding difficulties.
  • Brain injuries or neurological disorders may affect muscle control necessary for effective chewing and swallowing.
  • Children with Down syndrome often have low muscle tone (hypotonia), which can impact tongue control and coordination, making feeding more difficult.

Children with these conditions may experience aspiration (food or liquid entering the airway instead of the esophagus), leading to respiratory issues. A speech-language pathologist trained in feeding therapy can assess a child’s swallow function and implement strategies to improve safety and efficiency during mealtime.

feeding and swallowing therapy Lee County, Florida

Physical and Motor-Related Feeding Challenges

Children with conditions like cerebral palsy may have difficulty coordinating the muscles required for chewing and swallowing. Poor postural control can make it hard to sit upright during meals, further complicating their ability to eat safely. Therapy can help strengthen oral muscles and improve posture to support more effective feeding.

Why Addressing Feeding Challenges Early Is Critical

Early intervention is crucial for children experiencing feeding difficulties. Poor nutrition and inadequate food intake can lead to:

  • Growth delays
  • Poor immune function
  • Behavioral challenges due to hunger and nutrient deficiencies
  • Family mealtime stress and social isolation

Research indicates that children with feeding difficulties are at higher risk for long-term picky eating behaviors, which can persist into adulthood if not properly addressed. Therefore, early and targeted therapy can make a profound difference in improving a child’s relationship with food.

How Therapy Can Help: Our Approach to Feeding Therapy

At our Fort Myers pediatric therapy clinic, we use a comprehensive approach to feeding therapy that includes both medical and behavioral strategies tailored to each child’s specific needs.

1. Feeding and Swallowing Therapy

Our speech-language pathologists (SLPs) assess oral motor function and work on improving the coordination and strength required for safe swallowing. Strategies may include:

  • Oral motor exercises to strengthen jaw, tongue, and lip muscles
  • Modified food textures and liquid consistencies to improve swallowing safety
  • Neuromuscular re-education to help with chewing and food manipulation
  • Strategies for reducing gagging and oral aversion

2. The S.O.S. Approach to Feeding

For children with sensory-related feeding difficulties, we use the Sequential Oral Sensory (S.O.S.) Approach to Feeding. This evidence-based approach focuses on gradually introducing new foods in a structured, play-based manner. Steps include:

  • Encouraging children to interact with new foods through touching, smelling, and eventually tasting
  • Reducing anxiety around mealtime through a supportive, low-pressure environment
  • Expanding food acceptance by incorporating familiar and preferred foods into therapy

Studies show that gradual exposure and positive reinforcement can significantly improve food acceptance in children with sensory-related feeding issues (Toomey & Ross, 2011).

3. Parental Coaching and Home Strategies

Parental involvement is critical in feeding therapy. Our therapists work closely with families to provide:

  • Education on proper feeding techniques and mealtime strategies
  • Guidance on structuring positive and stress-free meals
  • Exercises and activities parents can implement at home to support therapy goals
feeding therapy for autism Fort Myers

Practical Mealtime Strategies for Parents

Parents can use the following strategies at home to help improve their child’s feeding experience:

  • Create a consistent mealtime routine. Consistency helps children feel secure and prepared for meals.
  • Use visual supports. Picture schedules and food charts can help children understand what to expect during meals.
  • Introduce new foods gradually. Avoid pressuring your child to eat unfamiliar foods; instead, encourage exploration at their own pace.
  • Model healthy eating habits. Eating together as a family and demonstrating enjoyment of different foods can encourage children to try new things.
  • Offer appropriate seating support. Ensure your child is seated in a stable, upright position with feet supported to promote safe swallowing.

A Path Toward Happier, Healthier Mealtimes

Feeding challenges among children with developmental delays, disorders and other conditions are complex – but highly treatable with the right interventions. Whether the difficulty stems from sensory sensitivities, medical conditions, or motor impairments, our team of skilled therapists in Fort Myers is here to provide expert guidance and therapy solutions tailored to each child’s unique needs.

If your child struggles with feeding, don’t wait—early intervention can prevent long-term issues and set the stage for lifelong healthy eating habits. Contact FOCUS Therapy today to learn more about our feeding therapy services and how we can support your child’s journey to a happier, more nourishing mealtime experience.

FOCUS offers pediatric feeding & swallowing therapy in Fort Myers and throughout Southwest Florida. Call (239) 313.5049 or Contact Us online.

Additional Resources:

SOS Approach to Feeding, 2017, Toomey & Associates

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Fort Myers speech therapy for children with Down syndrome

Fort Myers Speech Therapy for Children with Down Syndrome: What to Expect

When you first learn that your baby has Down syndrome, many questions inevitably arise about their growth and development. One of those concerns relates to their ability to communicate. Speech and language development is an area where children with Down syndrome often need extra support. Speech therapy plays a vital role in helping them reach their full potential.

As a multidisciplinary pediatric therapy clinic offering ABA therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and ADOS testing in Southwest Florida, we understand how critical early intervention is for children with Down syndrome. Here, we want to explain from a speech therapy perspective what parents can expect and how speech-language therapy can help them build essential communication skills.

Why Early Speech Therapy Matters

Fort Myers speech therapy for Down syndrome

Early intervention is key to helping children with Down syndrome develop strong communication skills. Research has shown that early intervention speech therapy for children with Down syndrome results in better expressive and receptive language skills compared to those who receive services later (or especially not at all). Since children with Down syndrome are very likely to experience speech and language delays, it’s advisable to begin therapy as early as possible to give them the best opportunity to improve their ability to express themselves and connect with others.

We recognize that new parents of children with Down syndrome are dealing with a lot, including potentially much more pressing health concerns. That said, it’s worth noting that waiting lists for pediatric speech therapy in Southwest Florida can be long. Because there’s little guesswork about whether a child with Down syndrome will benefit from speech and language therapy, parents can get started lining up those services to start as early as 6-8 months.

Also, because many children with Down syndrome have complex conditions, they’re often referred for a combination of therapies. That includes speech therapy, but also occupational therapy, sometimes feeding & swallowing therapy and also ABA therapy. Getting started early can help ensure they receive the comprehensive support they’re going to need.

Common Speech and Language Challenges Among Children with Down Syndrome

Children with Down syndrome experience a range of speech and language challenges due to anatomical, cognitive, and motor factors. Some common issues include:

  • Delayed Speech and Language Development. Many children with Down syndrome take longer to develop spoken language. While they often understand much more than they can express, speech therapy helps bridge that gap.
  • Hypotonia (Low Muscle Tone). Low muscle tone in the mouth and face can make it more difficult for children to produce clear speech sounds.
  • Hearing Loss. Many children with Down syndrome experience hearing issues, including frequent ear infections, which can impact speech and language development.
  • Apraxia of Speech. Some children with Down syndrome may struggle with motor planning for speech, making it difficult to coordinate the movements needed for clear speech.
  • Oral-Motor and Feeding Difficulties. Difficulties with chewing and swallowing may also be present and can impact speech production.
  • Expressive vs. Receptive Language Disparities. Many children with Down syndrome understand much more than they can verbally express. They may need alternative communication methods, such as sign language or augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices, to help them communicate effectively.

How Fort Myers Speech Therapy Helps

At FOCUS, speech therapy for children with Down syndrome is highly individualized, focusing on the child’s strengths and areas of need. Here are some key areas speech therapists address:

1. Building Early Communication Skills

For young children, speech therapy focuses on pre-verbal skills such as eye contact, turn-taking, and joint attention. Therapists often incorporate play-based techniques to encourage interaction and engagement, which are foundational for language development.

2. Developing Speech Sound Production

Children with Down syndrome may struggle with articulation due to low muscle tone and motor planning difficulties. Speech therapists use techniques such as:

  • Oral-motor exercises to strengthen the muscles involved in speech.
  • Tactile cues (e.g., PROMPT therapy) to help guide speech movements.
  • Visual and auditory feedback to improve sound production.

3. Enhancing Language Development

Language development therapy focuses on increasing vocabulary, understanding sentence structures, and improving conversational skills. Strategies include:

  • Using sign language or AAC devices to support early communication.
  • Modeling language and using repetition to reinforce new words.
  • Expanding utterances by encouraging children to add more words to their sentences.

4. Improving Social Communication

Social communication skills, such as greeting others, taking turns in conversation, and understanding social cues, are crucial for building relationships. Therapists use role-playing and real-life practice to teach these skills.

5. Addressing Feeding and Swallowing Difficulties

Some children with Down syndrome experience difficulties with chewing and swallowing due to low muscle tone. Speech therapists trained in feeding therapy can help improve:

  • Oral motor strength and coordination for safe and efficient eating.
  • Sensory processing related to feeding, helping children tolerate different textures and food consistencies.
  • Techniques for safe swallowing, such as modified food textures or specialized feeding strategies.

Parent Involvement in Speech Therapy

Fort Myers speech therapy for children with Down syndrome

Parents play a key role in their child’s speech and language development. Research has shown that parent-implemented interventions can significantly improve communication outcomes for children with Down syndrome. Speech therapists work closely with families to provide strategies for integrating speech and language practice into daily routines.

Here are some simple ways parents can support their child’s communication at home:

  • Read together daily to build vocabulary and language comprehension.
  • Use gestures and sign language to reinforce spoken words.
  • Encourage turn-taking during play and conversation.
  • Sing songs and nursery rhymes to improve speech rhythm and engagement.
  • Model correct pronunciation without pressuring the child to repeat words.

Setting Realistic Expectations

Speech and language development is a journey, and every child progresses at their own pace. While some children with Down syndrome develop verbal communication skills, others may rely on AAC devices or sign language as their primary mode of communication. The goal of speech therapy is not just to improve speech clarity but to help each child communicate in a way that works best for them.

Finding the Right Speech Therapy Provider

If you are in Southwest Florida and looking for speech therapy services for your child with Down syndrome, FOCUS Therapy offers a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach.

We provide:

  • Individualized speech therapy sessions tailored to your child’s needs.
  • Collaboration with occupational therapists and ABA therapists to support overall development.
  • Parent coaching (aka behavior consulting) to empower families in supporting their child’s progress.

Since waitlists can be long, we encourage parents to begin the process early. Even if your child is still an infant or toddler, getting an evaluation and enrolling in early intervention services can set them up for long-term success.

Fort Myers speech therapy for children with Down syndrome

Speech therapy is a critical component of early intervention for children with Down syndrome, helping them develop the communication skills they need to connect with the world. While challenges exist, with the right support, every child can make meaningful progress.

At our Southwest Florida pediatric therapy clinic, we are here to guide and support your family on this journey. If you have concerns about your child’s speech and language development, don’t hesitate to reach out—we are ready to help.

FOCUS offers speech therapy, ABA therapy, feeding & swallowing therapy, occupational therapy, AAC, ADOS testing and behavior consulting to children in Lee County, Florida. Call (239) 313.5049 or Contact Us online.

Additional Resources:

Language Characteristics of Individuals with Down Syndrome, April 27, 2010, Topics in Language Disorders

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Fort Myers autism diagnosis

Navigating an Autism Diagnosis in Florida: The First Steps

When a child receives an autism diagnosis, many parents feel a huge weight of uncertainty — about both the long- and short-term implications. It’s not only, “What will their future look like?” but also, “What do I do now?”

As a multidisciplinary pediatric therapy clinic offering ABA therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and ADOS testing in Southwest Florida, we at FOCUS Therapy understand the mix of emotions parents experience — concern, confusion, and the deep desire to do what is best for their child.

The good news? Early identification and intervention are crucial in supporting your child’s development — and you’re in the right place for that.

Whether your child has recently been diagnosed or you’re just starting to question whether there’s cause for concern, you’re already taking important steps toward securing the critical early intervention services that are proven to make a world of difference for children with autism.

Step 1: Recognizing the Signs and Seeking an Evaluation

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects communication, behavior, and social interaction. While every child is unique, some common early signs of autism include:

  • Delayed speech or language development
  • Limited eye contact or lack of response to their name
  • Repetitive movements (e.g., hand flapping, rocking)
  • Difficulty with changes in routine
  • Reduced interest in social engagement with peers or caregivers

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all children be screened for developmental delays at 9, 18, and 24 or 30 months, with specific autism screening at 18 and 24 months. If you have concerns, the first step is to bring them up with your pediatrician, who can refer you for a more comprehensive autism evaluation.

It is NOT advisable to take a “wait and see” approach, wherein parents just wait and see if the child’s developmental delay simply improves on its own. This approach is not supported by research. A landmark study published in the Journal of Pediatrics found that children who receive early intervention services before the age of 3 showed significantly greater improvements in communication, cognitive ability and social skills compared to those who started later. This is not to discourage parents of children older than that from seeking treatment, but we do know the sooner you start, the better the long-term outcomes.

Rather than waiting, parents should take proactive steps to get their child the support they need. Early intervention services, such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, can help build essential skills and improve long-term outcomes.

Step 2: Undergoing an Autism Evaluation (ADOS and Other Assessments)

A formal autism diagnosis requires an evaluation by a qualified professional, such as a developmental pediatrician, child psychologist, or pediatric neurologist. One of the most widely used and trusted tools for diagnosing autism is the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS).

The ADOS is a structured, play-based assessment designed to evaluate social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. It is often considered the gold standard for autism diagnosis and can be administered by licensed psychologists, developmental pediatricians, or other trained professionals. The evaluation typically consists of:

  • Engaging the child in structured and unstructured activities to assess communication and social behaviors.
  • Observing the child’s ability to interact, respond, and initiate social interactions.
  • Scoring the child’s responses to determine whether their behaviors align with an autism diagnosis.

FOCUS Therapy provides ADOS testing at our Fort Myers clinic. You will not receive a diagnosis immediately after the ADOS test is complete, but it is an important piece of evidence that the pediatric specialist will consider (in conjunction with other factors) when deciding whether an autism diagnosis is appropriate.

Step 3: Understanding the Diagnosis

Once an autism diagnosis is confirmed, it is natural to feel a flood of emotions. Many parents experience relief in having an explanation for their child’s behaviors, but also anxiety about what the future holds.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

  • Autism is not a one-size-fits-all condition. It is a spectrum, meaning each child’s strengths and challenges will be unique.
  • Early intervention is key. Research consistently shows that starting therapy as early as possible leads to better developmental outcomes. This typically includes a combination of ABA therapy, speech therapy and occupational therapy. (FOCUS offers all three, which can be a life-saver when your child needs all of them multiple times every week.)
  • This doesn’t mean the future is bleak. There is no “cure” for autism. However, many people with autism go on to live very healthy, productive, happy lives. We believe a strong foundation of early intervention therapy gives them the best possible chance of that outcome. Every patient is different, but many of those who came to us as toddlers have since gone on to attend general education classes in elementary school and beyond (though they may continue to need certain supports through an IEP or 504 plan to really thrive). A lot of families and patients also fully embrace and celebrate their neurodiversity. Therapy isn’t about “fixing” them. It’s about giving them the tools to function in everyday life.
  • Your child is still the same wonderful individual. A diagnosis does not change who they are, but it can help unlock the right support to help them thrive.
Fort Myers autism diagnosis

Step 4: Accessing Support and Therapy Services

Once your child receives an autism diagnosis, the next step is enrolling them in appropriate therapy services. Some key interventions include:

  • ABA Therapy: Focuses on teaching communication, social, and life skills while reducing challenging behaviors.
  • Speech Therapy: Helps with language development, articulation, and alternative communication methods for nonverbal children.
  • Occupational Therapy: Supports sensory processing, fine motor skills, and activities of daily living.

In Southwest Florida, there are a number of clinics (including FOCUS Therapy) that offers these therapies under one roof, making it easier for families to access comprehensive care all in one place.

If your child is under the age of 3, you can receive some services through Early Steps. As of this writing, these services are free and available to eligible babies and toddlers (up to 36 months). These include individual family support plans and services like speech therapy, occupational therapy and ABA therapy.

If the autism diagnosis is issued early enough to qualify your child for Early Steps services – by all means, take them up on it! However, understand that it will only last until they are 3. Chances are, your child may still need services, and your best bet at that point are private clinics. Because there can be a waitlist for therapy services in Florida, it’s a good idea to start getting that lined up before your child ages out of Early Steps.

School systems have programs for pre-kindergarten kids age 3-5 (such as Head Start). They may provide academic supports for your child once they start kindergarten in the form of an IEP or 504 plan. (FOCUS can provide IEP planning and assistance for parents in Southwest Florida.) However, those services tend to focus solely on academic skills. Those who receive outside therapy in addition to whatever the schools offer tend to fare better because we focus on the whole child.

Step 6: Connecting with Community Resources

Beyond therapy, there are many resources available to help families adjust to an autism diagnosis:

  • Support Groups: Organizations like the Autism Society of Florida provide a community where parents can connect and share experiences.
  • Educational Advocacy: Understanding your child’s rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) can help you secure appropriate school services.
  • Financial Assistance: Programs like Medicaid Waivers and grants from autism organizations can help offset therapy costs.

If you are on a pediatric therapy clinic waitlist for early intervention services, FOCUS also offers behavior consulting / parent coaching that can serve as a stop gap so you can make the most of the time in the interim – even if your child isn’t on the waitlist for services at FOCUS.

Step 7: Embracing the Journey Ahead

While an autism diagnosis can feel overwhelming, it also marks the beginning of a new journey—one filled with opportunities for growth, learning, and connection. With the right support, your child can develop essential skills and lead a fulfilling life.

As a dedicated pediatric therapy clinic in Southwest Florida, we are here to walk this journey with you. From initial evaluations like ADOS testing to ongoing therapy and parent coaching, we are committed to providing the highest level of care for children with autism and their families.

If you have questions or need support, don’t hesitate to reach out. Early action can make all the difference, and together, we will do all we can to help your child reach their fullest potential.

FOCUS offers ABA therapy, ADOS testing, behavior consulting, speech therapy, and occupational therapy to children in Lee County, Florida. Call (239) 313.5049 or Contact Us online.

Additional Resources:

Why Act Early if You’re Concerned about Development? CDC

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