Overcoming a Child with Sensory Processing Disorder's (SPD) Feeding Difficulties: Utilizing the Gag Desensitization Technique

Overcoming a Child with Sensory Processing Disorder's (SPD) Feeding Difficulties: Utilizing the Gag Desensitization Technique

In a world where mealtimes can often be a source of stress and frustration for both children and parents, those with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) face unique challenges. However, with the right approach and guidance, these difficulties can be addressed and overcome.

One such approach is the Tongue Jumping Game, a gag desensitization activity used by Occupational Therapists (OTs) specialising in Sensory Integration. This game helps children with SPD push back their reflexogenic zone and work on what to do with food in their mouth.

A child with high gag sensitivity may start the game just outside his mouth. Parents can join in, jumping on their own tongue at the same time as their child to make him feel less singled-out during the exercise. The OT jumps with a finger on the gag-sensitive area up to 10 times to push the gag-sensitive area to the back of the tongue, helping to desensitise it.

Poor proprioception or dyspraxia can result in a child stuffing food into his mouth excessively without swallowing. Weak oral muscles can prevent a child from chewing food effectively and cause him to avoid textural foods. In such cases, the oral-motor skills needed for chewing may be poor due to the brain not signalling the mouth to chew, or not telling when the mouth is full, or when to swallow.

However, with time, love, support, and guidance from parents, the child's brain will make neural connections to understand the sensation, and it will become automatic.

Some children with SPD may have an inability to feel full or hungry, which can lead to negative perceptions of eating. In such cases, parents can start the Tongue Jumping Game on the cheeks, jaw, chin, or lips, then gradually move into the mouth.

Gag distraction can help the child learn to control his gagging on his own without a lot of attention being paid to the gagging. Parents can use music or rhyming while jumping on their child's tongue to make the activity more fun and predictable.

An occupational therapist trained in treating children with SPD can help parents understand the mechanics of eating and the tiny steps involved in teaching a child to eat. They can guide parents on how to control excessive gagging, such as having the child move his head down so that his chin pushes on his chest, making gagging uncomfortable and anatomically difficult.

In conclusion, with the right guidance and a patient, supportive approach, children with SPD can overcome their eating challenges and enjoy mealtimes just like any other child. The Tongue Jumping Game is one such tool that can help make this journey a little easier.

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