When They “Will Not Grow Out of It”: Identifying, Assessing, and Addressing Pediatric Feeding problems.

Abstract: Feeding is the second most important function of each living organism, after breathing. Feeding issues are very complex and require highly specialized assessment and treatment. Between 20%-50% of typically developing children and 70-89% of children with developmental disabilities present with feeding difficulties. Atypical feeding occurs more frequently in autistic children (70.4%) when compared to typically developing children (4.8%). Complexity of feeding issues requires complex approach. The purpose of this presentation is to introduce importance of organic variables affecting feeding behaviors, assessments of feeding skills, developmental readiness, oral-motor difficulties in children with autism, and the role of integrated care in addressing feeding issues.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identifying organic variables affecting feeding behaviors.

2. Understand importance of oral-motor difficulties affecting feeding.

3. Understand the role of integrated care approach in addressing feeding issues.