It's never too late to try something new!

This year has proven to be very memorable and exciting for the school team of a 12 year old boy with Autism.

After being syringe fed all these years, this resilient young man has shown us it is possible to overcome sensory challenges as he works through a daily oral spoon feeding program at school.

The “5 SPOONS PROGRAM” was developed by the regional RN, the school’s OT and SLP, with input from the Teacher Assistant and family.

This program had evolved from long , loud stressful sessions for all, to the student requesting 5 SPOONS and swallowing a variety of both sweet and savory purees.

Peers assist with this program by creating video models demonstrating what is expected in these sessions, acceptable words we use when we like or dislike foods, and even how to lick pudding off one’s lips. These peer models are very motivating and enjoyable for this particular student and he often requests to watch these short video clips.

Are we there yet? No, but we are moving ahead at a pace that is working for this robust young man. The family is so encouraged by his progress that they too are trying to support this program at home and are even committing to the purchase of a Rifton style chair for the home to help this young man transfer his learning from school to home and respite care.

To quote our student as his team prepared for a “5 SPOONS PROGRAM” session, “Let’s get this party started!”

Who needs more encouragement than that?