Pediatric Feeding and Nutrition Program
In addition to providing core therapy services, Spaulding offers a Feeding and Nutrition Program designed to benefit infants and children who develop feeding difficulties due to a variety of conditions or circumstances, including:
- Mouth or throat weakness causing choking, gagging or coughing
- Reduced muscle control, neurological disorders
- Medical complications, prematurity, cardiac conditions, traumatic injury
- Non-oral feedings
- Growth and weight problems, malnutrition
- Chronic respiratory issues, reflux, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea
- Metabolic disturbances, food allergies
- Behavioral issues, autism, ADD
- Sensory integration disorders
- Extreme selectivity and food refusal
- Under-eating or over-eating
- Food anxieties or aversions
- Facial, oral, dental, pharyngeal anomalies
The program is led by a multidisciplinary team of experts that include a gastroenterologist, registered dietitian and therapists (PT, OT and Speech) specially trained in feeding and swallowing disorders. In addition, consultation with other pediatric subspecialists and a social worker is available. A comprehensive evaluation may include:
- Analysis of the caregiver’s description of feeding issues, birth, growth and dietary history
- Meal observation
- General health and medical assessment, including weight and height
- Assessment of oral-sensorimotor, swallowing, feeding skills and digestive status
- Evaluation of motor control and position
- Analysis or neuro-developmental milestones, social and cognitive skills
- Assessment of the home routine
Once specific underlying causes for the child’s feeding and nutrition problems are identified, the team prepares an individualized, family-focused treatment program.
Approach to Care
Whether a child needs a single therapy or a multi-disciplinary rehabilitation program, our pediatric rehabilitation specialists develop a customized care plan to ensure the best possible outcomes. In helping our patients reach their potential, our staff addresses the physical, social, emotional and academic needs of each child, laying the foundation for the continuing development of abilities and the experience of success. Clinicians work with pediatric specialists, referring physicians, schools, the family and the child to set goals and review progress. We also help families identify additional services and resources available to them within the healthcare system and in their communities.
Expertise
Our team consists of therapists, pediatric subspecialists, and other rehabilitation professionals who provide specialized treatment for children with a wide variety of developmental delays, injuries, illness and disabilities. Our clinicians have advanced training and experience working with children from birth to fifteen years of age.
Program Director
At Spaulding Centers for Children, on-site clinical leaders direct each of the specialty programs and clinics.
Locations
The Pediatric Feeding and Nutrition Program is available in the following locations:
Spaulding Outpatient Center Lexington
Spaulding Eileen M. Ward Outpatient Center for Children Sandwich
Related Services
The following services are related to the Pediatric Feeding and Nutrition Program:
Pediatric Speech and Social Skills Groups
Pediatric Medical Clinics
Pediatric Occupational Therapy
Pediatric Physical Therapy
Pediatric Speech/Language Pathology
Fit to Be Kids/Adolescent Weight Management Program
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The people of Spaulding are committed to helping patients and families find their strength.
