intensive support for lasting feeding progress
Nourishing Growth Through Expert Care and Genuine Support
Food Explorers is the perfect program for families looking to accelerate their child’s feeding progress in a fun and engaging way! Each adventure is uniquely designed to match your child’s specific needs, making every experience one-of-a-kind.
Throughout the program, children take part in exciting and interactive therapy sessions 3 to 5 days a week for up to four weeks. Meanwhile, families receive hands-on training, equipping them with the tools and confidence to continue effective therapy techniques at home. Get ready to embark on a transformative journey toward growth and success!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is a good fit for the program?
Food Explorers is designed for children facing feeding challenges that affect not only their daily lives but also the well-being of their families. We understand the stress, fear, and uncertainty that can come with mealtime struggles. This program provides an accelerated path to progress, helping to ease those burdens in a short period of time. With compassionate support and expert guidance, we work together to build confidence, reduce anxiety, and create a more positive feeding experience for your child and your family.
How old does my child need to be?
Food Explorers is designed for children 6 months to 12 years of age. On occasion a child outside of this age range is a good fit for the program. If you have questions about your child’s eligibility, please reach out to discuss further.
What is included?
Your child’s feeding journey is unique, and their food adventure is thoughtfully designed to meet their specific needs. Each adventure is built with care to provide the right support for both your child and your family. The program often includes daily one-on-one therapy sessions (3 to 5 times a week for up to four weeks), group feeding therapy, parent training, home visits, and collaboration with your child’s therapy or medical team. Every step of the way, we’re here to empower your child, strengthen your family’s confidence, and make mealtimes more joyful.
Do participants need to be existing Green Light clients?
Children do not need to be Green Light clients to participate. Children that are currently in therapy elsewhere, as well as children that are new to therapy are able to participate in the explorers program.
If your child currently sees a therapist at a different practice, your Green Light clinician will collaborate with them throughout the process to support carryover and ensure continuity of care.
How do we get started?
To begin the process, send an email to info@GreenLightSpeechTherapy.com with a brief description of your situation and needs. Once we receive your email, a clinician will contact you to schedule a discovery call.
Discovery calls are a key part of our process. At Green Light, we prioritize joy, positivity, and respect for every individual, big and small. Our commitment to these values is at the heart of our success. Taking the time to connect before beginning therapy ensures that we are the right fit for your family and that everyone’s time is well spent. We look forward to speaking with you!
What does the first day look like?
On day one, we start with the evaluation. Evaluations serve two important purposes: first, to begin building a strong client-therapist bond so your child feels safe and supported, and second, to gain a deeper understanding of their feeding challenges.
Our therapists begin by creating a warm and welcoming environment, taking the time to connect with both you and your child. As your child becomes more comfortable, the therapist will gently observe them drinking and/or eating, ensuring the process feels natural and stress-free. Our goal is to make this a positive experience while gathering the insights needed to support your child’s progress.
At the end of the evaluation, the therapist will discuss findings with the family and collaborate to develop the adventure plan that will ensure your child’s progress.
What do therapy sessions look like?
Believe it or not, feeding therapy sessions are fun. Our therapists are grounded in responsive feeding, meaning they follow your child’s cues to select the most comfortable and beneficial therapy path. By integrating highly skilled techniques into engaging activities, we foster shared joy, making progress a positive and enjoyable experience.
Parents of babies often thank us for not only making the process fun for their child but also for them; while older children look forward to feeding therapy and are excited to become food explorers!
What types of Therapy Approaches are used?
Therapists tailor their approach to best meet your child's unique needs, rather than relying on a single method. They are highly trained in a variety of techniques, including orofacial myofunctional therapy, sensory-based approaches, sensory-motor therapy, oral motor therapy, food chaining, and more. By combining these methods, therapists can provide the most effective and individualized care for your child.
Do you collaborate with other providers?
We know how overwhelming it can be to constantly relay information between doctors and therapists. You’re already doing so much for your child, and we want to lighten that load. That’s why we believe in a team approach—working hand in hand with your child’s other providers to ensure every need is met and no detail is overlooked.
If your child needs additional support, we’re here for that too. Through our trusted network of professionals, we can help connect you with providers who truly care, so you never have to navigate this journey alone.
How often is family involved?
At Green Light, our commitment goes beyond just therapy sessions; we're dedicated to fostering real, lasting results that illuminate your child's life. That's why we believe in the power of family involvement from the very beginning. We understand that parents are their child's most important advocates, and we're passionate about equipping you with the tools and knowledge to support their progress.
We diligently train parents in the therapeutic methods that resonate most effectively with their child's unique needs. And because we know life doesn't always adhere to a schedule, when a parent can't attend a session, we prioritize connecting with them at a time that works best for their busy lives. This collaboration ensures consistent support and carryover, empowering your child to shine every step of the way.
Let's talk!
Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Service Area: The North Shore of Chicago
