When to Worry About Your Child’s Feeding: A Parent’s Guide

As a parent, it’s natural to worry about your child’s growth and development—especially when it comes to eating. Is it just a phase? Is my child being picky? Or is something more going on? At Marigold Speech Services, we work with families every day who are asking these same questions, and we’re here to help you feel informed and empowered.

What’s Normal—And What’s Not?

All kids go through phases with food—some days they devour everything in sight, other days they act like broccoli is poison. But some behaviors may be signs of an underlying feeding or swallowing issue that needs a closer look.

Here are some red flags that may signal it’s time to reach out to a professional:

1. Prolonged Bottle or Puree Use

If your child is still relying on bottles or purees well beyond 12–18 months, it could indicate difficulty transitioning to solid textures.

2. Gagging, Coughing, or Choking During Meals

These are not just “clumsy” eating habits. Gagging or frequent coughing could suggest difficulty managing food or liquids safely.

3. Limited Food Variety

If your child only eats a handful of specific foods and refuses entire categories (e.g., all fruits, all proteins), this might be more than picky eating—it could be a sensory or oral motor issue.

4. Mealtimes Are a Daily Battle

If meals regularly involve meltdowns, refusal, or stress for the whole family, it’s worth exploring the root cause. Eating shouldn’t feel like a fight.

5. Poor Weight Gain or Growth

If your child isn’t growing as expected or your pediatrician mentions concerns about weight gain, feeding challenges might be part of the picture.

6. Wet-Sounding Voice After Eating or Drinking

This can be a subtle sign that food or liquid is “going down the wrong way,” which could require a more in-depth swallowing evaluation.

What You Can Do

You don’t need to navigate this alone. A speech-language pathologist (SLP) trained in feeding and swallowing can help assess your child’s oral motor skills, sensory preferences, and overall feeding development. At Marigold Speech, we offer personalized support to help your child feel more confident—and safe—at mealtimes.

Trust Your Gut

No one knows your child better than you. If something feels off, trust that instinct. Early intervention can make a huge difference in helping your child eat with ease, joy, and independence.

Want to talk with one of our SLPs? Call 608-728-7774 to schedule a consult—we’re here to help.