A New Look at Food "Chaining"

With Thomas' hearing loss issues somewhat under control and his language progressing at a rapid rate now (knock on wood), I've been focusing my time with him on his eating issues. It is primarily soft textures that he struggles with and has a HUGE defense mechanism when it comes to trying new foods. While we spent our 3 weeks with the awesome people of the John Tracy Clinic this past summer, an OT there recommended that we develop a reward system for trying new foods. She told me about a link system that goes from the ceiling to the floor (like retro Christmas tree garland). When the child eats or tries a new food, they get a link in the chain. When the chain hits the floor, they get a reward.



Around the time we were denied coverage for behavioral feeding therapy from our insurance carrier, we started our work on the chain. Thomas was so excited to learn that he would get a new toy when the chain reached the floor. BTW, this was also a great language opportunity to talk about links in a chain, getting longer, taller, closer, counting, etc. Also sequencing about which color goes first, second, third and finally fourth.

We started with simple crunchy textures that were not very offensive. We moved on to other textures like pizza, waffles, grilled cheese sandwiches, etc. Well this morning after eating his waffle, Thomas' chain reached the floor. He was so proud of himself! We brushed his teeth and immediately went to the grocery store so he could find his new toy. After carefully considering all the toys available and talking through all the options, he chose a bulldozer/backhoe combination vehicle...he is SUCH.A.BOY!






Now to start our next chain...what foods to work on next? Mommy may need to give this some thought while enjoying a glass or two of wine this evening.