Feeding and Swallowing Assessment
Our trained therapists specialise in assessing and treating feeding difficulties in infants and children, as well as conducting swallowing assessments for adults. Feeding issues can stem from structural differences or sensory challenges. Early assessment is crucial, especially for fussy eaters, children with poor weight gain, or those experiencing mealtime struggles. Feeding therapy may benefit children who gag, avoid certain textures, or have limited food intake. We collaborate with dieticians and other professionals to develop tailored strategies for improvement. Assessment can be delivered in English, Cantonese, or Mandarin.
Our speech pathologists provide personalised assessment and therapy for adults experiencing swallowing difficulties due to stroke, Parkinson’s, ageing, or other medical conditions. We focus on improving safety, comfort, and enjoyment during eating and drinking through evidence-based care and close collaboration with families and healthcare teams.
Feeding Therapy may be beneficial if your child:
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Is a fussy eater
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Has poor weight gain
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Spits out foods, vomits, gags or has food or drink coming out of their nose when eating
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Has frequent mealtime battles
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Has difficulty transitioning from purees to solids by 12 months of age
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Has not weaned off baby foods by 18 months of age
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Aversion or avoidance of specific textures or nutrition groups
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Does not eat the same meals as the rest of the family
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Experiences meltdowns or cries during mealtimes
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Has very limited or restricted intake (less than 20 foods)
Our therapists work with Dietitians and other professionals to help the child improve and resolve feeding difficulties.
Please get in touch to schedule an initial consultation.
FAQ Swallowing Assessment
What are common signs of swallowing difficulties in adults?
Coughing during meals, feeling food stuck, taking a long time to finish meals, unexplained weight loss, drooling, or frequent chest infections.
Do I need a referral?
No referral needed. But if you have medical history or reports (hospital discharge summary, ENT letter), please bring them along.
What happens in a swallowing assessment?
We assess your oral muscles, saliva control, chewing, and swallowing safety using different textures. We explain everything as we go to ensure you feel comfortable.
Do you do VFSS/FEES?
We provide clinical (bedside) swallowing assessments and can refer you for VFSS/FEES if needed.
Can you see Cantonese/Mandarin-speaking older adults?
Yes — we provide bilingual support for families who prefer Cantonese or Mandarin.
FAQ Feeding Therapy
What’s the difference between feeding difficulties and picky eating?
Picky eating is common. Feeding difficulties involve challenges with chewing, swallowing, safely managing textures, or stress at mealtimes. We can help you understand which applies to your child.
What happens in a feeding assessment?
We look at oral skills (jaw/tongue/lips), sensory preferences, posture, medical history, and observe your child eat familiar foods. Bring snacks they like and dislike.
Do you see babies?
Yes — we support infants with bottle feeding, transitioning to solids, tongue-tie concerns, and more.
Can sessions be in Cantonese/Mandarin?
Yes — you can explain concerns in Cantonese (廣東話) or Mandarin (普通話). Many families prefer bilingual communication during feeding therapy.
Do you work with medical teams?
Yes — we liaise with paediatricians, GPs, ENTs, and dietitians when needed.
We hope these FAQs help clarify our services and put your mind at ease. Our team at Blackburn Speech & Paediatric Therapy is here to support your child and family in every step, whether you’re navigating bilingual language development or helping a picky eater, whether it’s in our clinic or at your home in Blackburn, Box Hill, or surrounding areas. Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions – no question is too small. We’re here to help!
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We provide compassionate, evidence-based swallowing assessments for adults experiencing difficulty eating, drinking, or managing saliva. Whether caused by age-related changes, neurological conditions, surgery, or sudden illness, our speech pathologists evaluate safety, efficiency, and your everyday needs. We explain results clearly and create a personalised plan, including strategies, safe-swallowing techniques, texture modifications, and ongoing support. Sessions are available in English, Cantonese, or Mandarin for adults and families across Blackburn, Box Hill, and the eastern suburbs.