Feeding Difficulties in Children: Why It’s More Than Just a Phase

Many families report that their child is a picky eater when they actually have Feeding Difficulties. Although there is no know “cause “ of Feeding Difficulties there are contributors.

Contributors of Feeding Difficulties

 Reflux and other GI disorders

 Negative feeding experiences

 Environmental Influences

 Sensory Integration Dysfunction

 Prematurity

 Anxiety (Post Traumatic Stress )

Could It Just Be Picky Eating?

Picky eating is a typical developmental stage that occurs at the same time that a toddler is exhibiting independence. Any picky eating past toddler years is not part of typical development. Although similar in some ways, Feeding Difficulties is not part of typical development. Children “don’t just grow out of it”. Feeding Difficulties is a disorder that can cause many problems for children and their families.

Complications Of Feeding Difficulties

 Poor growth and nutrition

 Social and emotional anxiety

 Delays in development

 Stress on entire family

Common Characteristics

 Gags, coughs, chokes

 Extreme food selectivity

 Selective by brand or look of food

 Refuses unfamiliar foods

 Fear /anxiety of food or eating

 Rigid eating habits

 Limited variety (<20 foods)

 Strong negative reaction to new foods

 Oral sensory and motor issues

 Does not eat family diet

 Disruptive mealtime behaviors

 Food jags

That sounds like my child, what should I do?

If your child is exhibiting any of the characteristics of Feeding Difficulties and you are concerned about your child’s feeding behaviors, get help now. The “just make him eat” or “he will eat when he gets hungry” strategies do not work with Feeding Difficulties and may actually make things worse.

Won’t My Child Just Grow Out of It?

Unfortunately kids do not just grow out of Feeding Difficulties. In fact without help, they can get worse. Early intervention can reduce the risk of medical complications, reduce the potential of behavioral disorders and reduce the risk of social and emotional issues.

Until I get feeding therapy, what can I do at home?

Have family meals Only feed child when seated. Do not allow traveling while eating. Continue to offer unstressed presentations of non-favored foods Do not bribe, sneak or force any food Ignore or time-out undesired behaviors