Welcome to Begin to Bloom

Welcome to Begin to Bloom: Supporting Infants (and Parents) at the Very Beginning

Starting Begin to Bloom feels a little like standing at the edge of something both exciting and tender—much like welcoming a new baby into the world.

After almost 20 years as a pediatric occupational therapist working with medically complex infants and families in high acuity medical settings, I’m opening this next chapter with one clear mission: to provide thoughtful, highly specialized feeding support to babies and their families during one of the most vulnerable—and important—stages of development.

Why Infant Feeding Matters (So Much More Than We’re Told)

Feeding is often described as “natural,” but for many families, it’s anything but easy. Difficulty with feeding can show up as trouble latching, coughing or choking during feeds, prolonged feed times, bottle refusal, poor weight gain, reflux symptoms, or simply a baby who seems uncomfortable or unsettled while eating.

What’s often overlooked is that feeding is not just about calories—it’s about safety, regulation, growth, bonding, and trust. When feeding feels stressful, it affects the entire family system.

That’s where specialized infant feeding therapy comes in.

A Different Kind of Support

At Begin to Bloom, I work exclusively with infants who have feeding and swallowing challenges. This focused approach allows for:

• Deep expertise in infant feeding and swallowing

• Timely access to care without long waitlists

• In-home evaluations, where babies are most comfortable and feeding looks most like real life

• Individualized care, not one-size-fits-all protocols

Parents often tell me they’ve felt rushed, unheard, or unsure in larger systems. My goal is to slow things down, listen carefully, and partner with you to understand your baby.

For Parents Who Know Something Isn’t Quite Right

If you’re here because feeding feels harder than it should—or because you’ve been told to “wait and see” but your instincts are telling you otherwise—you’re not alone, and you’re not overreacting.

Early support can make a meaningful difference, not only for feeding skills, but for confidence, connection, and peace of mind.

What You’ll Find Here

This blog is a space for:

• Education about infant feeding and swallowing

• Guidance on when to seek support

• Reassurance for parents navigating uncertainty

• Honest conversations about the realities of feeding challenges

Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or healthcare provider, I’m glad you’re here.

This is just the beginning—and I’m honored to support families as their babies begin to bloom...and as you begin to bloom as a new parent of a little one.