Swallowing, eating and drinking

An opportunity to communicate and connect with friends and family over a meal is important.

Teenagers who have cerebral palsy or a similar condition, often have the same types of goals and desires related to mealtimes as their typically developing peers – experience interesting and varied food, fun and enjoyable mealtimes, independence in managing a meal, and a safe and comfortable experience. Balancing safety, nutrition, independent function and enjoyment, remains a focus for this age group.

To learn more about how we can support you, please contact our friendly team

How we can help

What we help with
  • Assessment of dysphagia (swallowing disorder) and other mealtime difficulties
  • Assistance with non-oral feeding (NG tubes, Gastrostomy)
  • Collaboration with medical teams to ensure timely access to the right services and supports
  • Education and training in dysphagia and mealtime assistance for support staff and school
  • Information about nutrition and growth
  • Management of drooling
  • Mealtime difficulties resulting from oral and other sensory difficulties, such as sensitivities to the feel or look of food or drink
  • Meal preparation
  • Oral and dental hygiene
  • Techniques to promote safe swallowing, such as positioning, food and drink consistencies and textures, different utensils 
Who can help

Our highly trained and dedicated staff who are experts in supporting swallowing and mealtimes for teenagers and their families.

You can work with our:  

  • Occupational therapists with additional training in supporting children with sensory difficulties.    
  • Speech pathologists 
How we can help

We offer a blended model of services to meet the needs of teenagers and their families.

Appointments may be arranged: 

  • At your local centre; 
  • In your home; 
  • In your local community
  • At camps, outings and intensives 
  • Or via Telepractice 


A small group session may be recommended. Groups can be attended in person or via Telepractice.

Funding supports

If you have a funding package from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), we can work with you to maximise the benefits.

You can purchase eating, drinking and swallowing supports using your:

  • Capacity Building budget 
    • Improved Daily Living  (15)

  • Capital Supports budget  
    • Assistive Technology (5)

Tell me more

We will respond as soon as possible, between Monday-Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm

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