Popsicles, Pool Time, Picky Eating: How Summer Can Reveal Feeding Issues
Summer brings long days, outdoor play, and all the sticky snacks kids love — but it can also bring something else to the surface: feeding issues you might not have noticed before.
Whether it’s struggling to eat a popsicle or avoiding certain textures at cookouts, many children show signs of oral motor delays or sensory-based feeding challenges during laid-back summer routines. If you’ve ever had a gut feeling that mealtimes just aren’t going the way they should, this post is for you.
Why Feeding Challenges Stand Out in the Summer
During the school year, many kids eat at the same time with the same types of food — often in a rush. But summer slows everything down. It’s in these unstructured moments that underlying feeding issues become more noticeable.
You might see:
Avoiding certain textures (e.g., popsicles, fruit, meat, or crunchy foods)
Meltdowns around unfamiliar or mixed foods
Taking a long time to chew or swallow
Packing food in the cheeks (pocketing)
Messy eating or food constantly falling out of the mouth
These aren’t just “picky eating” quirks — they can be signs of underdeveloped oral motor skills or sensory sensitivities that make eating genuinely difficult or uncomfortable.
What Is Pediatric Feeding Therapy?
Pediatric feeding therapy helps children:
Strengthen the muscles used for chewing, swallowing, and oral coordination
Build tolerance to textures and temperatures
Feel safer and more confident during meals
At OroGlow, we support kids in a calm, fun environment with individualized strategies that honor their pace and needs. We’re not here to “fix” picky eaters overnight — we’re here to build long-term skills and confidence around eating.
Signs It Might Be Time to Get Support
If you're not sure whether your child needs help, here are a few questions to consider:
Does your child regularly avoid entire food groups (like fruits, proteins, or cold items)?
Is eating stressful — for them or for you?
Are they overly sensitive to temperature or texture?
Do they gag, spit out food, or take an unusually long time to finish meals?
If you answered yes to more than one, a free consultation could help give you clarity.
Key Takeaways:
Summer routines can bring feeding issues to light, especially around texture and temperature.
Avoiding popsicles, messy eating, or long chewing times aren’t just quirks — they may signal oral motor challenges.
Pediatric feeding therapy builds confidence, skills, and safety around food in a supportive setting.
Early support can make meals feel easier for the whole family.
Wondering If It’s More Than Just Picky Eating?
At OroGlow, we help families uncover the why behind feeding struggles — and give them a plan that actually works. Book your free consultation today to get answers, support, and real progress.
Located in Abilene, Texas, OroGlow also serves families virtually across the country.