If you’ve ever worried about your child coughing, gagging, or refusing food at mealtime, you’re not alone. Many families in Frisco and Richardson face challenges related to feeding and swallowing. These difficulties can make family dinners stressful and, more importantly, affect a child’s health and growth. The good news is that help is available. Speech & OT of North Texas has a clinic in Frisco that supports families across Richardson, Plano, McKinney, and nearby communities.
What Do Feeding and Swallowing Disorders Look Like?
Feeding and Swallowing problems can show up in many ways. Some infants struggle with sucking or breastfeeding. Toddlers may fight spoon-feeding or gag at the sight of new textures. Older children might only eat a very limited range of foods or take so long to finish a meal that it becomes exhausting for everyone at the table.
Common signs include:
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Coughing or choking when eating or drinking
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Gurgly or hoarse voice after meals
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Excessive drooling or spitting food back out
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Meals dragging on for more than half an hour
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Refusal to try new textures or types of food
For some kids, the cause is weak muscles or poor coordination. For others, it may be sensory sensitivities—textures, smells, or flavors that feel overwhelming. Medical conditions can also play a role.
Why Getting Help Early Matters
It might be tempting to “wait and see,” but feeding and swallowing disorders can have real consequences. Without help, children risk not getting enough calories or fluids. There’s also the danger of aspiration—food or liquid going into the airway—which can lead to pneumonia or other respiratory issues.
Just as importantly, feeding problems often turn mealtimes into battles. Families spend more time worrying about nutrition than enjoying time together. That’s why many parents in Richardson and Frisco choose to seek therapy early at a clinic that specializes in these challenges.
How Therapy Works at the Frisco Clinic
At Speech & OT of North Texas, children are evaluated by speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists trained in pediatric feeding. Families come from Frisco, Richardson, and surrounding areas because the clinic offers specialized support.
The SOS Approach
One of the main tools used here is the SOS (Sequential Oral Sensory) Approach. This program doesn’t just focus on one aspect of eating—it looks at posture, oral motor skills, sensory reactions, behavior, medical history, and nutrition together. By combining these factors, therapists can build a plan that feels manageable for both the child and the family.
Where to Find Them
The Frisco office is conveniently located at:
3880 Parkwood Blvd, Building 5, Suite 502, Frisco, TX 75034
That makes it easy for Richardson families to access therapy without having to travel far.
What Parents Can Do
If you notice any of the warning signs above:
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Talk to your pediatrician to rule out medical causes such as reflux or allergies.
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Schedule a feeding evaluation with a therapist trained in swallowing and feeding disorders.
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Start therapy early so your child builds skills before the problems get bigger.
FAQs
Q: Do only babies have feeding problems?
Not at all—toddlers and older children can struggle too.
Q: What makes the SOS Approach different?
It looks at the “whole picture”—motor skills, sensory factors, medical issues, and nutrition—rather than focusing on just one piece.
Q: I live in Richardson. Can I use the Frisco clinic?
Yes. Families from Richardson and nearby cities are welcome at the Frisco location.
Q: Will insurance help cover therapy?
In most cases, yes. The clinic works with many insurance providers.
Final Word
If you’ve been searching for Frisco feeding and swallowing or Richardson Frisco feeding and swallowing services, Speech & OT of North Texas offers a place where families can find both answers and support. With early treatment, children not only eat more safely but also enjoy mealtimes again.
