Food School

What is The SOS Approach to Feeding?

The SOS (Sequential-Oral-Sensory) approach to feeding is a therapeutic method designed to help children with feeding difficulties or food aversions.  It addresses both oral motor delays and sensory aversions related to foods.  Developed by Dr. Kay Toomey, this approach focuses on gradually introducing new foods to children in a way that is non-threatening and builds positive associations with eating.  The SOS feeding approach aims to make mealtimes less stressful and more enjoyable for children and their families, helping them to develop a healthier relationship with food and mealtimes.

Therapists utilize play-with-a-purpose to facilitate skill development and movement up the steps to eating. There are multiple steps to eating to help children learn to:

• Tolerate foods in the vicinity
• Interact with foods
• Smell foods
• Touch foods
• Taste foods
• Eat foods!

The SOS approach incorporates the following:

• Sequential Introduction: This gradual approach helps make new foods less intimidating and encourages a more positive attitude towards eating. Foods are presented in a specific hierarchy to allow for connections to be made about similarities and differences between foods.
• Sensory Exploration: The approach emphasizes the importance of sensory exploration, allowing children to interact with food through their senses (sight, touch, smell, and sometimes sound) before expecting them to eat it.
• Positive Reinforcement: The SOS approach uses positive reinforcement to build confidence and reduce worry around eating. 
• Individualized treatment: Sessions are tailored to each child’s specific needs and comfort levels. The pace at which new foods are introduced can vary depending on the child’s progress and reactions.
• Family Involvement: The approach often involves educating and training parents and caregivers to support their child’s feeding progress effectively.