Last updated on November 28th, 2023 at 06:13 pm
“Many special needs children suffer from feeding issues and complications. My twins have
difficulties with certain foods and textures and have been struggling with this for awhile. Thankfully, because of feeding therapy, we are slowly but surely making progress in this area.
The Following Are Some Helpful Tips and Techniques That Might Help Get You Started – From Speech Pathologist and Feeding Therapist, Heather Boerner.
KH: Please introduce yourself and let us know about your background and credentials.
HB: I’m Heather Lynn Boerner, M.A., CCC-SLP – a Speech Language Pathologist. I have been in practice for ten years primarily servicing the pediatric population and own Chatty Child Speech Therapy out of New York. I specialize in treating feeding disorders, as well as speech, language and pragmatic language delays. I expanded my knowledge working in pediatric hospitals, schools and clinical settings.
KH: What are some factors that can cause feeding problems in a special needs child?
HB: There are numerous factors that can put a child at risk for a feeding delay or disorder. Parents should be aware that “pediatric dysphagia,” the term used to describe difficulty swallowing can occur anywhere from the mouth to the stomach.
The Following Is a List of Common Factors Cited – From the “Pediatric Dysphagia Resource Guide” by Kelly Dailey Hall
Gastrointestinal or Gastroesophageal Tract Disorders
Children with normal swallowing function may have gastrointestinal issues (“GI”) that will affect feeding. A child may not be able to tolerate oral feedings because of negative consequences, such as pain associated with food moving from the esophagus to the intestines. Some GI abnormalities include: Vascular Ring, Tracheoesophageal Fistula, and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder (“GERD”). GERD is one of most common reasons for feeding avoidance and occurs when the stomach contents moves upwards into the esophagus and possibly the pharynx. Generally, both medicines and behavioral management are combined to treat the GERD.
Malabsorption Disorders of the Small Intestine
This type of disorder is caused by inadequate digestion and absorption of nutrients by the small intestine.
Short Gut Syndrome
This is an intestinal disease caused by a combination of factors affecting the immature gut in premature infants.
Respiratory Disorders
There are many conditions that can cause a compromise in breathing. Any time there are issues with breathing, then feeding and swallowing may be affected…”
… To read the rest of the article check our Spring issue of Multiplicity page 23-25. It’s FREE! You will find many other great articles and many more great stories and information for your enjoyment.
Written by Katiana Harrison – Mother to six-year old, twin daughters, who have Autism. Her love for and dedication to her daughters have helped her to grow into an Autism advocate.
