Basic Philosophy of the Program:
The SOS approach is based on the "normal" steps in the eating process of spontaneous, healthy children. Our aim is to enable children to learn about food by playing games with it, without fear or stress. Thus, children begin to relax towards food.
Step by Step Process of Getting Used to Food:
The process of eating does not only happen with our mouth. A six-stage path is followed:
- Tolerating the presence of food: Even the presence of food in the room is sometimes the first step.
- Indirect Interaction with Food: For example, touching food with a fork or small utensil.
- Acquaintance with the Smell and Aroma of Food: It is important for the child to perceive and manage the smell.
- Touching Food: Feeling the food by touching it with fingers, hands and body.
- Tasting: Touching quickly with the tongue or taking the food into the mouth and spitting it out.
- Chewing and Swallowing: The last step is to practice chewing and swallowing the food.
These steps are like the process of a baby learning to eat, and children go through these stages at their own pace.
SOS uses “Purpose Directed Play” in therapy. So, by playing fun and purposeful games with food, kids gain cooking skills. The game attracts the child's attention and makes it easier for him to learn.
