Helpful Tools for Sensory-Based Feeding
Our Helpful Tools page highlights simple items that can make a big difference during mealtimes. From chew tools and textured spoons to fun cups and sensory play materials, these tools are chosen to support exploration, reduce stress, and encourage positive feeding experiences. Each tool comes with easy tips for how to use it at home, giving caregivers practical ways to make mealtime more engaging and successful.
Mealtime Tools
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Divided plates/ Bento boxes: keeps foods separate to reduce overwhelming with mixed textures
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Fun utensils: animal forks, spiral spoons, appetizer forks helps increase motivation to explore
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Mini tasting spoons: encourage "just a taste" without committing to a full bite
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Food picks/skewers: makes trying foods playful
Oral Motor Tools
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Chewy tubes/ Chew sticks: provide safe ways to strengthen jaw and practice chewing
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Straws (various sizes): thick milkshake straws for resistance, thin coffee stirrers for precision sucking
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Blow toys: (bubbles, whistles, pinwheels, harmonicas) prepares the mouth for feeding and builds control
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Vibrating oral tools (Z-Vibe): adds sensory input for oral defensiveness or seeking
Sensory Play Tools
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Messy play bins: (rice, beans, pasta, or food-safe sensory bins) provides exposure to non-food textures
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Cookie cutters & food stamps: lets kids shape foods and reduce "food fear"
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Rolling pins & child safe knives: promote involvement in cooking (sensory exposure without pressure)
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Textured sponges or brushes: for pre-meal "brushing" on hands/mouth to help regulate sensory system
Visual & Engagement Tools
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Smiley face rating charts: let kids rate foods as "yummy", "okay", or "not yet"
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Stickers or reward charts: encourage exploration, not just eating
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Mirrors at the table: kids can watch themselves eat (great for modeling)
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