Feeding is one of the very first ways a baby connects with the world. It’s how they get the nutrition they need to grow, but it’s also about comfort, bonding, and learning. At APT, we specialize in feeding and swallowing therapy to support babies and young children who may be struggling with these early, essential skills.
Feeding and swallowing involve more than just eating, they require coordination, strength, and the right timing between sucking, swallowing, and breathing. When these skills don’t develop as expected, it can lead to challenges with growth, comfort, and future development.
Why Feeding Skills Are So Important
Strong feeding and swallowing skills help a baby:
- – Get the nutrition they need for healthy weight gain and growth
- – Feel safe and comfortable during feeding, whether breastfed, bottle-fed, or transitioning to solids
- – Develop oral motor coordination, which supports speech and language down the road
- – Build positive mealtime experiences that reduce stress for both baby and parents
Difficulties with feeding can show up in many ways; long feeding times, coughing or gagging during meals, refusing certain textures, or difficulty transitioning from milk to solids. These challenges can be frustrating and exhausting for families, but help is available.
How Feeding Therapy Can Help
Our pediatric feeding and swallowing therapists work closely with families to identify the root of feeding challenges and create a plan that’s personalized, gentle, and effective. Therapy may focus on:
- – Teaching safe swallowing techniques
- – Strengthening oral muscles and improving coordination
- – Supporting transitions from bottle or breast to solid foods
- – Making mealtimes less stressful and more enjoyable for everyone
We also help parents feel more confident and equipped, because feeding is about more than what’s on the plate—it’s about connection, comfort, and development.
We’re Here for Every Bite
If feeding has become a challenge for your baby or young child, you’re not alone. Our compassionate team is here to help your child develop the skills they need to grow, thrive, and enjoy mealtimes again. Reach out to us to learn more about our infant feeding and swallowing therapy services.
* Please be advised that these milestones have been provided by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and have been cross-referenced by our team of Speech Language therapists. This timeline is intended to serve as a guideline for neurotypically developing children- every child is different and progresses at their own pace! If your child has an underlying medical diagnosis, please note that this timeline may be modified for your child. If you have any concerns or questions, please consult with a pediatrician or your primary care physician.
References :
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. (n.d.). Feeding and Swallowing Milestones: Age Ranges. Retrieved May 21, 2025, from https://www.asha.org/public/developmental-milestones/feeding-and-swallowing-milestones/