In today’s hectic world of parenting, where every child seems to come with their unique set of challenges, one common struggle that many families face is dealing with picky eaters. It’s a scenario familiar to almost every parent or guardian out there. But fear not, because MetroEHS Pediatric Therapy is stepping in to offer a solution that not only addresses the needs of the child but also brings relief to the entire family.

During a recent segment on Live in the D, Tati Amare dove into the topic of feeding therapy with two experts from MetroEHS: Dawn Sterling, a Board Certified Behavioral Analyst, and Sam Fitzsimmons, the Director of Occupational Therapy. Their insights shed light on the signs indicating a child could benefit from feeding therapy, how MetroEHS approaches this issue, and invaluable advice for parents navigating feeding challenges.

According to Sam Fitzsimmons, pediatric feeding disorders are more common than we might think, with one in 23 children under the age of five affected. These disorders often accompany developmental disabilities like ADHD and autism, making them even more prevalent. Signs to watch out for include mealtime behaviors that disrupt daily routines, extreme food selectivity, and a reduction in the variety of foods consumed.

MetroEHS takes a holistic approach to feeding therapy, utilizing an interdisciplinary model that incorporates occupational therapy, speech therapy, applied behavior analysis (ABA), and physical therapy. Their goal is to make feeding a positive and enjoyable experience for children, starting with non-food items and gradually progressing to food-based activities through play and sensory exploration.

One of the most significant takeaways from the discussion is that it’s never too early to seek help. Whether it’s addressing difficulties with latching during breastfeeding in newborns or tackling food aversions in older children, MetroEHS is there to support families every step of the way.

When it comes to feeding strategies, Dawn Sterling emphasizes the importance of keeping things light and pressure-free. Rather than engaging in power struggles over food, she advocates for creating a nurturing environment where children feel comfortable exploring new foods at their own pace. The key is to focus on engagement and enjoyment, both for the child and the family.

In their own words, both Dawn and Sam emphasize MetroEHS’s commitment to holistic care, not just for the child but for the entire family. By adopting a whole-child approach and empowering families, MetroEHS aims to foster growth and success in every aspect of a child’s development.

As the conversation drew to a close, Tati Amare reiterated the accessibility of MetroEHS’s services, with 14 locations already established in Metro Detroit and three more on the horizon. Whether it’s ABA, speech, occupational, feeding, or physical therapies, MetroEHS stands ready to lend a helping hand to families in need.

In conclusion, dealing with picky eaters can be a daunting challenge, but with the right support and guidance from experts like those at MetroEHS Pediatric Therapy, families can overcome these obstacles and ensure that every child thrives. If you’re facing feeding difficulties with your child, don’t hesitate to reach out and discover the transformative power of pediatric feeding therapy.

AAC Devices in Pediatric Therapy

AAC is the term used to describe any form of communication that a person can use that is not speech. This may include pointing to pictures of what the person wants, using sign language, or using a device that will speak a message when a specific button is pushed.

MetroEHS can boast a 100% success rate in supplying clients with these crucial communication devices giving a voice to our superheroes.

When Should AAC be Considered for a Child?

An AAC device should be considered for any child whose speech output is not adequate to fully communicate their wants and needs.

Things to consider:

-Child’s frustration levels

-Adult frustration levels

-Access to school curriculum

-Participation in classroom activities

-Ability to demonstrate knowledge to teachers

-Access to home and community environment

-Ability to interact appropriately with family and peers

-Independence in developmentally-appropriate daily activities

MetroEHS partners with an AAC company and a medical equipment company. These companies serve as consultants for Metro EHS SLPs as we work toward supplying families with AAC devices. Some AAC tools are covered by insurance, but some are not. MetroEHS Pediatric Therapy will help you understand your options.

The Process:

Step One: Our SLPs identify kiddos who might benefit from using AAC!

Step Two: We begin trialing different devices and different communication systems determining which systems work best for each individual client. There are several devices and programs to choose from.

Step Three: Once the SLP determines which system works best, an AAC evaluation is submitted to the client's pediatrician for review. If the pediatrician approves, we obtain a prescription for the device, much like obtaining a prescription for a splint, or other form of medical equipment.

Step Four: When the prescription is received, the prescription and evaluation report are all submitted to the insurance company.  Once approved, the device is ordered!

Step Five: The device is delivered to the family and they family receives assistance with set up and demonstration.  The device fully belongs to the child.

After the device is in the hands of our client, MetroEHS SLPs work with the family and the client to integrate the device into their world in speech therapy.

With Locations all over South East Michigan and excellent Speech Therapy services, MetroEHS Pediatric Therapy is here to help. Browse through our Locations Page to find a Local Therapy Center near you!

In a recent airing of Live in the D, sponsored by MetroEHS Pediatric Therapy, the spotlight was on Autism Awareness Month, shedding light on how children on the autism spectrum can benefit from life-changing therapy. MetroEHS, a pediatric neighborhood therapy company with multiple locations across Metro Detroit, including expanding services, is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for children with various therapy needs, including autism.

Deanna Coker, a board-certified behavioral analyst, and Kris Krajewski, a speech therapist with MetroEHS, joined the show to discuss how therapy can significantly impact children’s communication skills.

Understanding Communication Challenges in Autism

Deanna explained that autism, as a developmental disability, often presents challenges in social interaction and communication. Unlike typically developing children who learn language by observing and imitating, children with autism struggle to find meaningful ways to communicate, despite their desire to do so.

The Role of Speech Therapy

Kris emphasized that speech therapy is essential for children with autism, given that communication difficulties are a hallmark characteristic of the condition. Speech therapists, like those at MetroEHS, work to identify barriers to communication and introduce alternative methods for expressing thoughts and needs.

Speech Therapy Interventions

Kris introduced an innovative tool called the AAC device (Alternative and Augmentative Communication), essentially an iPad loaded with specialized software designed exclusively for communication purposes. This device enables children to select words and icons to express themselves, giving them a voice and autonomy in their interactions.

Empowering Communication Through Tools

Deanna highlighted another communication aid, the PECS book (Picture Exchange Communication System), a low-tech solution that uses pictures to help children convey wants, needs, and preferences. By selecting and exchanging pictures, children can effectively communicate with caregivers, enhancing their independence and self-expression.

The conversation between Deanna, Kris, and the show’s host highlighted the importance of therapy in empowering children with autism to communicate effectively. Through innovative interventions and specialized tools, such as AAC devices and PECS books, children can overcome communication barriers and actively engage with the world around them.

For families seeking therapy services for their children, MetroEHS offers comprehensive support, including ABA, speech, occupational, feeding, and physical therapies. With multiple locations across Metro Detroit and additional centers on the way, MetroEHS aims to make therapy accessible and impactful for families in need.