Foundations of Mealtime Peace

Patrick McLean

Patrick McLean

Patrick McLean serves as Administrative Director and Co-CEO of Chicago Pediatric Therapy & Wellness Center, a comprehensive pediatric therapy practice he co-founded with his wife Rose in 2014. With over a decade of healthcare business leadership, Patrick has transformed their vision of coordinated, family-centered care into a thriving multidisciplinary clinic serving families throughout Chicago. After graduating from Western Illinois University in 2004 with a Bachelor's degree in Business and Finance, Patrick developed expertise in healthcare operations, strategic planning, and organizational growth. His business acumen combined with a deep commitment to serving children with developmental needs has positioned Chicago Pediatric Therapy & Wellness Center as a trusted resource for families navigating speech delays, sensory processing challenges, autism spectrum disorder, motor delays, and behavioral concerns. As Co-CEO, Patrick oversees essential operational pillars including marketing and community outreach, human resources and staff development, financial management and insurance coordination, and long-term business strategy. His leadership has enabled the clinic to expand from offering single therapy services to providing integrated physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, ABA therapy, and social work—all coordinated under one roof for maximum family convenience and clinical effectiveness. Patrick's management philosophy centers on creating systems that empower both staff and families. He has built a culture of collaboration where therapists from different disciplines communicate seamlessly about each child's progress, ensuring holistic treatment plans that address the whole child. His proudest moments come from witnessing families' journeys—from initial concerns through celebrated milestones and hard-won achievements. Beyond his professional role, Patrick brings personal perspective as a father of four children. He actively coaches his kids in various sports, enjoys creating barbecue masterpieces on his smoker, and values connection time with friends on the golf course. This balance between professional purpose and family life reinforces his understanding of the families Chicago Pediatric Therapy & Wellness Center serves every day.

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Our Speech and feeding team worked together on this article to help you and your family achieve a more peaceful mealtime experience at your home. They came up with 4 foundations that can be easily implemented into your daily routine, here they are:

1. Schedule

It is important that we establish predictable routines with mealtime to create a safe and comfortable environment for the child. Here are some schedule recommendations:

  • schedule meals and snacks to avoid grazing
  • create a routine around mealtime (set table, wash hands, dishes in sink

2. Eat as a Family

Sit around the table as a family to help create a safe and comfortable environment for the child.

3. Sit Down

If you sit down for mealtime it can create an association and help the child learn about the mealtime.

4. Keep Mealtime Positive

Mealtime can be stressful for many families, especially those with a picky eater. It is important that we avoid pressure at mealtime to help the child feel more comfortable. Encourage the child to talk about different characteristics of food at the table.

 

 

 

 

 

Additional Help

If you are seeking additional guidance and support for your child’s speech and feeding skills, the staff at CPTWC is here to help! Call us today at 773-672-7775 or email us at info@cptwc.com for more information or to schedule an assessment.

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