Feeding Disorders Program

A feeding disorder is identified when a child is unable or refuses to consume a sufficient quantity or variety of solids and liquids to maintain proper nutrition. Physical signs of a feeding disorder include coughing, gagging or choking during mealtimes; congestion, wheezing or trouble breathing when eating; and trouble with swallowing or chewing, among others.

Some children may also refuse meals, limit their diet, or display other emotional responses that decrease their food intake. As a result, your child may experience weight loss, malnutrition, lethargy, impaired development and poor growth.

Our team includes a speech pathologist, occupational therapist, dietitian and behavioral psychologist. We will work with you to provide a comprehensive assessment to identify the issues interfering with feeding and then develop a personalized treatment plan for your child.

Testing is used to determine the root of the feeding disorder. These tests include a videofluoroscopic swallowing function study (VFSS) to evaluate how safely your child swallows liquid and/or food. This study shows if food goes into your child's airway instead of the stomach and which parts of the mouth or throat may not work well. The purpose of this test is to suggest changes that will improve your child's feeding/eating. 

This study is usually followed by a feeding evaluation where our team members will meet with you and watch your child eat. Based on the results of these tests, we will develop a home program and feeding guidelines. We may also offer other recommendations to meet the specific needs of your child. 

Children weaning from nasogastric or gastrostomy tubes may also benefit from our program.