sensory integration
Supporting Speech, Language & Feeding Development
At MCP, I specialize in sensory-informed speech and feeding therapy that helps children regulate, focus, and build strong communication and eating skills. By addressing sensory processing alongside speech and feeding, therapy is more effective, leading to faster progress and greater success in daily life.
What Makes MCP Different?
🌟 A Critical Missing Piece in Speech & Feeding Therapy – Most speech therapists do not include sensory integration in their sessions, even though sensory challenges can directly impact a child’s ability to communicate, focus, and eat a variety of foods. Without addressing how a child processes sensory input, therapy may miss key factors affecting their progress. At MCP, I bridge this gap.
🌟 Integrated, Whole-Child Approach – I connect sensory processing with speech, language, and feeding therapy to create a truly comprehensive plan.
🌟 No One-Size-Fits-All Therapy – Every child’s sensory system is unique, so therapy is personalized to support regulation, engagement, and progress.
🌟 Play-Based & Child-Led – Kids learn best in a fun, low-pressure environment, where they can explore sensory input at their own pace while developing critical skills.
Early support builds confidence in speech, feeding, and daily interactions!
JUMP TO SECTION:
What is Sensory Integration?
Sensory integration is how the brain takes in, organizes, and responds to information from the world around us. Every child reacts differently to the world around them, but some kids seem extra sensitive to sounds, textures, or movement, while others crave more activity or barely notice certain sensations. You may notice your child avoiding certain clothes, foods, or loud noises because they feel overwhelming. Some kids are constantly on the move—jumping, spinning, or crashing into things—while others struggle with coordination, frequently tripping or having trouble with fine motor tasks. Sitting still and paying attention, especially in school or structured activities, may feel impossible. Social interactions can also be tricky, whether it's playing too rough or not understanding personal space.
When a child’s brain processes sights, sounds, and touch differently, everyday activities can feel like a challenge. Instead of feeling calm and in control, they may seem fidgety, anxious, or easily upset. When their body is stuck in "fight or flight" mode, it can be hard for them to focus, follow directions, or absorb new information. Instead of being in a ready-to-learn state, their energy is spent trying to manage their surroundings, making learning and social interactions much harder.
Sensory integration plays a key role in speech, language, and feeding development. The ability to coordinate fine motor movements of the lips, tongue, and jaw, process spoken language and visual cues, and self-regulate emotions and attention all depend on how well a child’s brain organizes sensory input. When these systems aren’t working together smoothly, it can impact speech clarity, communication, eating & chewing, and the ability to engage in conversations.
If this sounds familiar, sensory-informed therapy can help your child feel more comfortable, focused, and confident in their daily life.
Why it’s Important
Sensory processing lays the foundation for speech clarity, feeding success, and self-regulation. When sensory systems are well-integrated, children can speak clearly, eat a variety of foods, and engage with the world comfortably.
| Skill | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Speech Clarity | Helps children coordinate oral movements for clear speech and articulation |
| Following Directions | Improves the ability to process and respond to spoken language |
| Eating & Chewing | Supports safe swallowing, food exploration, and accepting new textures |
| Self-Regulation | Helps children manage emotions, focus, and stay calm in different environments |
| Oral-Motor Control | Improves tongue, jaw, and lip coordination for clear speech and efficient chewing/swallowing |
Signs Your Child May Need Support
Sensory processing challenges can affect speech, language, and feeding in different ways. If your child experiences any of the following, they may benefit from sensory-based therapy:
Speech & Language Challenges
🚩 Trouble producing clear speech sounds due to oral coordination issues
🚩 Struggles to follow directions or process spoken language
🚩 Avoids or seeks certain sounds, movements, or textures that impact communication
Feeding Challenges
🚩 Refuses certain food textures (e.g., avoids crunchy, sticky, or mixed foods)
🚩 Gags frequently or has difficulty chewing/swallowing
🚩 Prefers bland or “nude” foods, avoiding sauces, dips, or mixed textures
🚩 Has trouble using utensils, drinking from a straw, or self-feeding
Regulation & Behavior Challenges
🚩 Overwhelmed by bright lights, loud sounds, or messy textures
🚩 Constantly seeks movement (spinning, crashing, jumping) or avoids it
🚩 Struggles with sitting still during meals, school, or structured activities