by the Paediatric Team at Optimum Intake Dietitians
If you’re a parent navigating feeding therapy with your child, chances are you’ve been on a journey filled with questions, hopes, and maybe even a bit of exhaustion.
You may have already seen an occupational therapist (OT) or a speech pathologist (SP), or perhaps you’ve been in therapy for years—but something still doesn’t feel quite right. Progress feels slow, and your child still struggles to enjoy food, participate in mealtimes, or explore new textures. You’re doing everything you can, but deep down, you’re wondering: Is there something we’re missing?
You’re not alone. And you’re not doing anything wrong. But one thing we see time and time again at Optimum Intake Dietitians is this: when a dietitian is added to the team, things can start to shift in a really meaningful way.
What Makes Dietitians Different in Feeding Therapy?
It’s not uncommon for dietitians to meet families after a long road of other therapies. We often hear parents say, “We wish we’d seen you sooner!” That’s because dietitians approach feeding therapy from a different angle—one that looks at the whole child, not just the mouth or motor skills.
Here’s what makes our approach so unique—and why it works.
We Start With Nutrition—and That Changes Everything
Sometimes, a child isn’t progressing with feeding because their nutritional needs are already being fully met through supplements, tube feeds, or other supports. As one of our colleagues, Nat, shared, simply adjusting a child’s formula intake opened the door to interest in food for the first time in years. It’s a subtle shift—but one that only a dietitian is likely to notice.
We also screen for common nutritional issues like low iron or zinc, which can impact appetite, energy, and even sensory sensitivities.
We Support You—Because Feeding Is a Family Journey
Parents tell us they feel more supported, more confident, and finally understood when they start working with our team.
Feeding therapy at Optimum Intake isn’t just about what happens in the session—it’s about what happens at home. We offer:
Coaching you through mealtimes at home
Helping you understand your child’s cues
Giving you confidence in your role
And empowering you to take small steps that make a big difference
We know feeding challenges impact the whole family. That’s why we walk alongside you—not just your child and not just what happens in the therapy room.
We Focus on Trust, Curiosity & Confidence
Our approach is flexible and responsive. Rather than sticking rigidly to a set therapy model, we focus on building a positive, pressure-free relationship with food—for both you and your child.
Parents often report beautiful changes after working our dietitians:
- Mealtimes feel calmer and more enjoyable
- Their child is more curious about food and willing to explore
- Family events and holidays become less stressful
- Kids begin participating in shopping or cooking
- There’s real, sustained growth—in both health and confidence
In short? Feeding becomes less of a fight and more of a shared experience.
A Fresh Perspective Can Be the Breakthrough You’ve Been Waiting For
We understand—it’s frustrating to feel like you’ve tried everything. But sometimes a fresh pair of eyes, especially from a dietitian who understands nutrition, food psychology, sensory integration, and your child’s medical background, can make all the difference.
Many families tell us they finally started to see progress after working with a dietitian. It’s not that other therapies weren’t valuable—it’s just that feeding is complex, and nutrition can’t be overlooked.
Let’s Take the Next Step—Together
If you’re feeling stuck, discouraged, or simply ready for a new approach, consider bringing a paediatric dietitian onto your feeding therapy team. We’re here to offer not just strategies, but real hope, clarity, and progress.
Because every child deserves to feel safe with food—and every parent deserves support on the journey.
Our paediatric dietitians at Optimum Intake Dietitians are passionate about helping children and families navigate feeding therapy with compassion, evidence-based care, and a whole-family approach.
Need support from a dietitian who specialises in feeding therapy?
Call us on 0499 008 451 or get in touch through our enquiry form at www.optimumintake.com.au/contact to book an appointment or speak with our friendly team.
Together, let’s help your child build confidence with food—and bring some joy back to mealtimes.
