Understanding the SOS Feeding Approach: Helping Children Build Positive Mealtime Experiences
At Rewired Therapy, we know that mealtimes can be a source of stress for many families. Some children may refuse entire food groups, eat only a very limited variety of foods, or become anxious at the table. These challenges can make it difficult for children to get the nutrition they need - and can leave parents feeling frustrated and worried.
That’s why we have occupational therapists who are trained in the SOS (Sequential Oral Sensory) Approach to Feeding, a family-centred, evidence-based program designed to support children who struggle with feeding and eating.
What is the SOS Feeding Approach?
The SOS Feeding Approach was developed by Dr. Kay Toomey and is widely used around the world. SOS stands for Sequential Oral Sensory, highlighting how the approach helps children progress step by step in learning to eat a wider variety of foods.
Instead of focusing on "getting kids to eat," the SOS approach looks at the whole child - including their sensory, motor, oral, learning, medical, and emotional factors. This means it goes beyond the surface level of picky eating to understand why a child may be struggling.
How Does it Work?
The SOS Feeding Approach helps children move gradually and gently through the many steps involved in eating. These steps can range from tolerating food being near them, to smelling, touching, and tasting, and finally to eating and swallowing.
By breaking down the process into smaller steps, children feel safe and supported, reducing stress and making mealtimes more positive.
Sessions often look playful - children may explore foods by touching, smelling, or even making a “food game” out of it. This playful, child-led approach helps reduce anxiety and encourages curiosity around food.
Who Can Benefit?
The SOS Feeding Approach can help children who:
Eat fewer than 20 different foods
Refuse entire food groups (e.g., no fruits or vegetables)
Gag, cough, or vomit with certain foods
Have sensory sensitivities to textures, smells, or tastes
Have medical or developmental conditions affecting feeding
Experience stressful or prolonged mealtimes
It can also be supportive for families who want to bring back more joy, connection, and ease at the dinner table.
The Role of Occupational Therapy in Feeding
Occupational therapists trained in SOS are skilled in looking at how a child’s sensory preferences, motor skills, and daily routines affect their feeding. At Rewired Therapy, our OTs work with both children and families to create a supportive, practical plan that can be used at home as well as in therapy sessions.
Supporting Families, One Bite at a Time
Feeding difficulties are never just about food - they’re about a child’s comfort, confidence, and participation in family life. With the SOS Feeding Approach, our therapists help children feel safe exploring new foods while empowering parents with tools and strategies to make mealtimes less stressful.
If you would like to learn more about how the SOS Feeding Approach could support your child, get in touch with our team at Rewired Therapy. We’re here to help families enjoy happier, healthier mealtimes together.