Feeding Therapy for Autistic Children in Ontario

Feeding difficulties in autistic children can stem from sensory sensitivities (texture, taste, smell aversions), oral-motor challenges, rigid behaviour patterns, anxiety about new foods, and gastrointestinal issues. Sharp et al. (2013) found that up to 70% of autistic children exhibit food selectivity, compared to 4-13% of neurotypical peers. Severe cases may meet DSM-5 criteria for ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder).

Left unaddressed, significant food selectivity can lead to nutritional deficiencies, growth concerns, family mealtime stress, and social participation limitations. Early intervention with a qualified feeding therapist can expand food repertoire and improve mealtime behaviour.

SLP-led feeding therapy addresses oral-motor coordination, swallowing safety, and food textures. OT-led feeding therapy targets sensory-based food aversions, self-feeding skills, and mealtime participation. Behavioural feeding approaches (delivered by BCBAs) use systematic desensitization and reinforcement to expand accepted foods. The Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS) approach and Beckman Oral Motor Protocol are commonly used frameworks.

Both SLP and OT feeding therapy are eligible for OAP core clinical funding. For severe ARFID, hospital-based multidisciplinary feeding clinics (available at SickKids, CHEO, McMaster Children's) provide team-based assessment. Wait times for hospital feeding clinics are typically 6-12 months. Private feeding therapy in Ontario costs $100-150/session.