Bear Tracks Pediatric Therapies

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Bear Tracks Pediatric Therapies

Bear Tracks Pediatric Therapies helps children through Speech-Language Therapy and Feeding Therapy.

09/10/2025

Hard munchables might look simple — but they play a big role in feeding therapy.

These firm, safe-to-mouth foods aren’t about eating… they’re about learning. Hard munchables help little ones:
✔️ Strengthen tongue and jaw movements
✔️ Adjust their gag reflex safely
✔️ Build tolerance to new textures
✔️ Practice self-feeding without pressure

As a speech-language pathologist and feeding therapist, I use hard munchables to support kids with picky eating and oral-sensory challenges. They give children the chance to explore, chew, and gain confidence with food — all while you supervise.

🍎 Examples include large carrots, celery stalks, cucumber spears, watermelon rind, and
asparagus stems. (Always watch closely and remove when food gets too soft!)

✨ Feeding therapy is messy, gradual, and so worth it. Progress doesn’t happen overnight — it happens one safe step at a time.

👉 Save this post for later & share it with a parent who’s just starting their solids journey.

08/29/2025

Finding healthy, budget-friendly options your toddler will actually eat can feel overwhelming. That’s why I’m sharing some of my go-to Walmart finds—easy swaps that picky eaters enjoy and parents feel good about.

📌 Quick note: pouches are convenient, but they don’t help kids practice chewing skills. They’re best for travel or quick snacks—balance them with spoon-feeding and whole foods to support oral motor development.

👉 Save this for your next Walmart run & check out our cookbook for more toddler meal ideas! Link in bio.

08/27/2025

Helping picky eaters (including kids with sensory food aversions) doesn’t mean forcing brand-new foods—it’s about meeting them where they are and making small, safe changes.

Food chaining is a powerful strategy I use in feeding therapy to expand a child’s diet without the mealtime battles. Instead of overwhelming them, we build on foods they already accept.

✨ Why it works:

👉 Kids feel safe starting with familiar foods

👉 Small steps build trust and confidence

👉 It promotes positive experiences with food instead of pressure

Every child’s journey is different, but progress doesn’t have to mean giant leaps—it’s about tiny steps that add up.

📌Save this post for when mealtimes feel tough, and remember: change takes time, but growth is possible.

08/25/2025

Mealtimes and practice sessions can feel overwhelming—especially if your child struggles with speech or feeding. But here’s the thing: how we respond as parents and caregivers can make all the difference.

Instead of shutting things down with a “negative phrase,” try rephrasing with guidance that supports connection, confidence, and progress.

These swaps take the pressure off your child and keep communication positive, whether you’re at the table or in play.

💬 Which phrase swap do you want to try first? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear.
#̭parentingtips

06/30/2025

MYTH or FACT? 🧠 Let’s bust 5 common myths I often hear about picky eating—because understanding the why behind your child’s behavior changes everything.

As an SLP and feeding therapist, I’ve heard it all—from “They’ll grow out of it” to “Just make them eat what everyone else is eating.” But feeding challenges are rarely that simple.

👉 Swipe through to see the truth behind each myth and how we can better support your child’s relationship with food—one positive experience at a time.

Which myth have you heard the most? Tell me in the comments!

06/27/2025

Thinking about becoming a feeding therapist? Here’s why I did it.

As a speech-language pathologist, I saw firsthand how many families were struggling with mealtimes — and how few of us were trained to help.

That’s what led me to the SOS Approach to Feeding. This play-based, family-centered method changed how I support kids with feeding challenges, from picky eating to sensory sensitivities. And it’s deepened the connection I build with families in my care.

If you’re an SLP, the feeding world needs you. If you’re a parent looking for support, I’m here.

We’re always trekking together. 🐾

02/14/2025

Today is all about love, connection, and appreciation—and that includes the little moments of progress we see every day in speech and feeding therapy. ❤️

To the parents, caregivers, and little ones I work with: You are amazing. Whether it’s trying a new food, saying a new word, or simply showing up and giving it your best, every step matters.

Wishing you a day filled with love, joy, and of course, lots of sweet moments (whether that’s hugs, laughter, or maybe a favorite treat!).

💬 Drop a ❤️ if you’re celebrating the small wins today!

02/12/2025

Every child deserves to be heard, understood, and supported. 💙 As an SLP & Feeding Therapist, my mission is more than just improving speech or eating—it’s about building confidence, trust, and meaningful connections.

🔹 Helping kids find their voice—whether through speech, AAC, or gestures
🔹 Creating a safe space where therapy feels fun, not forced
🔹 Encouraging a positive relationship with food and communication
🔹 Supporting parents & caregivers with practical strategies for home
🔹 Celebrating every little win—because progress comes in all forms

Therapy is a journey, and every child’s path is unique. 💡 If you have questions about speech or feeding therapy, drop them in the comments or DM me—I’m here to help!

01/27/2025

Cooking is more than just making delicious treats—it’s an incredible way for children to learn and grow! Here’s why cooking is a must-try activity:

✨ Skill-Building: From planning ingredients to following recipes, cooking helps kids develop essential life skills like sequencing, problem-solving, and task completion.
✨ Hands-On Learning: Measuring, mixing, and pouring encourage motor skill development and confidence.
✨ Bonding Time: Create memories together while teaching food safety and creativity in the kitchen.

Start simple with recipes that have just a few steps, and let your child’s abilities grow along with the complexity of your dishes. You can even get creative with homemade soap or special family recipes!

Comment your favorite recipes below.

01/24/2025

Developing speech and language skills takes time, and it’s normal for young children to make mistakes as they learn.

But how do you know when it might be time to seek help? Here are a few signs to watch for:

1️⃣ Family and friends struggle to understand your child.
2️⃣ Your child feels frustrated when they’re not understood.
3️⃣ Your child doesn’t show frustration, but you still find their speech hard to understand.

If any of these sound familiar, a speech-language pathologist (SLP) can help assess your child’s speech development and provide guidance tailored to their needs. Early support can make all the difference!

💬 If you have concerns or questions, feel free to comment or DM me—I’m here to help!

01/20/2025

When parents and therapists join forces, amazing progress happens! 💪🌟

Your role as a parent or caregiver is just as important as the work done in therapy sessions. Whether it’s celebrating small wins at home, sharing insights, or practicing together, your involvement makes all the difference.

Remember: it’s a team effort, and every step forward—big or small—is worth celebrating. 🐾💬

How do you stay involved in your child’s therapy journey? Share your tips or ask questions in the comments below! ⬇️

Address

3078 Serenity Lane
Naperville, IL
60564

Website

http://Beartrackspediatric.com/

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