🎄 December Newsletter – Well Fed Feeding & Swallowing Therapy 🎄

Happy Holidays from Well Fed!
As the year comes to a close, I want to thank all of you for being part of the Well Fed family. Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful, peaceful holiday season filled with love, laughter, and delicious food!

🎁 Practice Updates

1. Holiday Closures:
   The clinic will be closed on the following dates:

   • December 23–26

   • December 30–January 1

   • February 19–March 2

   Be sure to plan ahead for any appointment needs before or after these dates.

2. Updated Attendance Policy & Feeding Package Contracts:
   New versions of the attendance policy and feeding package contract will be uploaded to all active client portals this week.

   • Deadline to Sign: January 1, 2025

   • Signing the feeding package contract is required to lock in sessions at the 2024 rates.

   • https://wellfedfeedingandswallowingtherapy.clientsecure.me/

     • Sign into your client portal here to complete these forms now!

3. 2025 Pricing Updates:
   Starting January 1, 2025, rates for home and office visits will increase. Keep reading this newsletter to find graphics detailing the updated pricing for office and home visits.
   Note: If your feeding package contract is not signed by January 1, the 2025 rates will apply.

4. Travel Radius Changes:
   Starting in January, my travel radius will adjust to 15 miles from my Londonderry office (previously 20 miles). This change allows me to stay on time for back-to-back appointments and be more flexible with unforeseen delays.
   Current clients living within 15–20 miles will not be affected by this change.

🍴 5 Strategies for Managing Mealtimes with Picky or Worried Eaters During the Holidays

Traveling or celebrating the holidays with family can be stressful for picky or worried eaters. Here are some tips to help:

1. Bring Familiar Foods: Pack a few safe, go-to foods your child feels comfortable eating to reduce anxiety.

2. Preview the Menu: Talk about what foods will be served and highlight any familiar or exciting options they might try.

3. Offer a No-Pressure Plate: Allow them to explore new foods without requiring them to taste or eat. Simply placing the food on their plate is progress!

4. Take Breaks: If mealtimes become overwhelming, it’s okay to step away for a sensory break.

5. Focus on Connection: Keep the conversation light and fun—reduce the focus on what’s being eaten and instead enjoy time together.

🍪 5 Holiday Food Prep Activities for Picky Eaters

Including kids in holiday food prep is a great way to encourage curiosity and exploration with food:

1. Decorate a Gingerbread House: Let them add candies, smell the frosting, and touch the textures without pressure to taste.

2. Roll Out Cookie Dough: Feeling the dough and using cookie cutters can be a fun sensory experience.

3. Decorate Christmas Cookies: Provide a variety of toppings and let them sprinkle, drizzle, or spread.

4. Smell Fresh Herbs: Introduce festive scents like rosemary, sage, or cinnamon for sensory exposure.

5. Assemble a Festive Fruit Tray: Let them pick fruits and create fun designs like trees or wreaths.

Thank You for Another Wonderful Year!

Well Fed Feeding Year In Review

2024 has been a milestone year for Well Fed Feeding and Swallowing Therapy, and I’m excited to share some highlights with you!

🌟 Full-Time Dedication
In June, I transitioned to running Well Fed full-time after 18 months as a side-gig. It’s been an incredible journey, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the trust and support from families like yours.

🌟 New Office in Londonderry
I opened a beautiful new office in Londonderry, NH, expanding my reach to serve more families outside my 20-mile travel radius. This space has allowed me to support more clients in a warm and welcoming environment.

🌟 Client Impact
This year, I had the privilege of working with 42 new clients, ranging in age from 4 weeks to 13 years, from 27 surrounding towns and cities. Each family’s unique journey has inspired and driven my passion for helping children thrive.

🌟 Professional Growth
I’ve maintained certifications and training as a SOFFI, MBSImP, AEIOU, IDF Scales, and NLA-trained clinician and completed over 40 hours of continuing education focused on infant and pediatric feeding and swallowing. Additionally, I’m thrilled to share that I’m on the verge of becoming a DIR Floortime Certified Clinician, broadening my ability to support neurodiverse children.

This year has been one of growth, learning, and connection, and I couldn’t have done it without the amazing families I serve. Here’s to an even brighter 2025! 🎉

I’m so grateful to be part of your family’s journey. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about these updates or strategies. Let’s end the year strong and look forward to 2025 with new goals and growth!

Warmly,

Lauren

Do you know someone that could benefit from feeding therapy with me? Send them this link to sign up for an evaluation: https://wellfedfeedingandswallowingtherapy.clientsecure.me/ 

or start by sending me an email to set up a phone consultation:

https://www.wellfedfeedingtherapy.com/contact-us