Overcoming Mealtime Hurdles with Dena Kelly, BCBA

Relevant Links:  Access your CEU Certificate by filling out THIS form.  Join our fast-growing BCBA Community by signing up HERE.  Are you a BCBA looking for a job? Apply HERE. Episode Summary: Are you looking for effective ways to support children struggling with feeding issues, especially those on the autism spectrum? In this episode, feeding therapy expert Dena Kelly explores practical interventions and strategies BCBAs can implement to help children overcome mealtime challenges.Discussion Points:Understanding feeding challenges in children with autismThe importance of early intervention and structured routinesIntegrating social aspects into feeding therapyUsing external motivators and behavior analytic techniquesEmpowering parents and caregivers to maintain progress at homePenina and Dena begin by discussing the common feeding challenges in children with autism, including rigidity, sensitivity to textures, and broader family dynamics that can influence eating habits. Dena emphasizes the importance of early and thorough assessments to rule out medical concerns before initiating behavioral strategies. She offers practical advice on establishing consistent mealtime routines, identifying motivators, and incrementally expanding a child’s food repertoire. Throughout the episode, Dena underscores the valuable role that families play in sustaining these improvements, highlighting the need for collaboration and education to ensure lasting success.About The Guest:Dena Kelly is a licensed professional counselor and board-certified behavior analyst with nearly 15 years of experience in feeding therapy. She has worked extensively in both private practice and intensive feeding clinics, helping children with a variety of developmental challenges. Dena’s expertise lies in combining medical, behavioral, and social approaches to create holistic feeding interventions that foster greater independence and quality of life for her clients.Time Stamps:• 00:00 -Dena Kelly’s Professional Background• 02:00 – Feeding Therapy Focus• 02:42 – Challenges with Feeding in Children with Autism• 05:05 – Importance of Addressing Feeding Issues Early• 07:56 – Impact of Feeding on Behavior and Development• 14:31 – Social Aspects of Feeding• 19:07 – First Steps for BCBAs in Addressing Feeding Issues• 27:20 – Using External Motivators for Feeding• 27:53 – Understanding Food Preferences in Kids• 28:29 – Feeding Therapy Techniques• 29:18 – Role of BCBAs in Feeding Interventions• 33:35 – Establishing Mealtime Routines• 39:32 – Addressing Common Feeding Issues• 46:49 – Promoting Independence in FeedingConnect With Dena:www.focusedapproach.comReady to transform the way you approach feeding challenges in children with autism? Tune in to the full episode for valuable insights and actionable strategies you can use immediately!