Feeding & Swallowing

We offer feeding and swallowing therapy for children and adults with feeding difficulties and dysphagia. We see infants (as young as newborns or premature infants after being discharged from hospital), to children, preschoolers, school-age children and the whole age range including adults and the elderly.

Feeding & Swallowing Assessment

A Speech Therapist and/or Dietitian will assess your child or the adult’s feeding and swallowing. During your first visit, we will:

Therapy and Treatments

Treatment varies depending on your child and families’ presentation. The frequency and number of sessions will depend on the severity of your child’s feeding difficulty. This will all be discussed in collaboration with the family.

During therapy sessions, caregivers or family members are encouraged to participate, as it is expected that families carry out the intervention in the home environment for best outcomes.

Fussy/Picky Eater

Picky eating can be normal, but if a child eats fewer than 20 foods or mealtimes become stressful, support is needed. Our therapists use responsive feeding and the SOS Approach to expand food variety and promote healthy growth.

Chewing Difficulties

Does your child struggle with chewing food, gag on textured meals, or prefer only soft or pureed foods? Chewing difficulties can impact nutrition, mealtime routines, and a child’s confidence around food. If mealtimes feel stressful or limited, your child may benefit from feeding therapy.

Bottle Feeding Aversion

Bottle aversion is when a baby refuses to drink from a bottle due to sensory preferences or negative experiences. Our specialists work with families to gradually reintroduce bottle feeding and develop positive feeding habits.

Sucking Difficulties

Some infants may have trouble sucking from a bottle due to weak oral muscles or improper positioning. Our team can assess and provide strategies to help improve sucking skills and ensure proper nourishment.

Difficulty transitioning to solids/textured food

Children who struggle to transition to solids or textured food may have oral motor delays or sensory sensitivities. We provide personalised strategies to help ease the process and promote safe, effective feeding.

Swallowing Difficulties (Dysphagia)

Dysphagia refers to difficulty in swallowing food, fluids, or saliva. It can occur in both children and adults due to a variety of medical, neurological, or developmental conditions.

Drooling Remediation

Excessive drooling can result from oral motor difficulties or developmental delays. We offer therapeutic interventions to improve oral control and reduce drooling, promoting comfort and confidence during feeding.

Tube Weaning

Tube weaning helps children transition from tube feeding to oral feeding, providing support for those who have relied on a feeding tube. Our team uses a gradual, structured approach to build oral skills and confidence for successful eating.

Orofacial Myology/Myofunctional Therapy

Orofacial Myology, also known as Myofunctional Therapy, is a specialized treatment that focuses on correcting improper tongue, jaw, and facial muscle functions. It addresses the relationship between the muscles of the face, mouth, and throat to improve overall oral function, posture, and breathing.
Our Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of services does Magic Beans offer?
Magic Beans specializes in speech therapy, language development, and feeding therapy for individuals of all ages, including those with speech and language difficulties as well as swallowing (dysphagia) issues.
What makes Magic Beans different from other speech therapy practices?
Magic Beans is known for its child-centered programs that focus on personalized therapy tailored to each child’s unique needs. Our experienced therapists utilize a multidisciplinary approach to create comprehensive therapy plans, ensuring well-rounded progress.
Who are the therapists at Magic Beans?
Our team consists of skilled speech therapists trained in various domains, dedicated to helping children and adults overcome communication and feeding challenges. Each therapist has extensive experience in their field, providing the best possible care for clients.
How does Magic Beans ensure the effectiveness of its therapy programs?
We focus on creating engaging and personalized therapy sessions that nurture growth and development. By combining expertise from various fields, we address all aspects of a child’s development, ensuring a holistic approach to therapy.
Do I need a doctor’s referral?
No, a referral isn’t necessary. You can reach out to us directly for an assessment.
How long does an assessment take?
Typically, it lasts about 1 to 1.15 hours, though additional time may be needed depending on the case.
What happens after the assessment?
We will discuss findings and create a customised therapy plan based on your child’s needs.