Feeding children with special needs Feeding children with special needs often poses challenges at mealtimes. While helping them with feeding and other nutritional issues, three main aspects have to be taken into account– Observations: Closely observe the child’s behaviour and progress at mealtimes. Observe their abilities to handle food, food preferences, allergies and any specific condition. Promote and help them develop the skill they need to get adequate nutrition and experience pleasant mealtimes.
Developing eating skills: Children with disability are likely to require more time to eat. They often struggle to feed themselves and make bigger messes. Focus on positive reinforcement to keep them motivated and prevent resistance. Make sure the child is seated comfortably and avoid feeding her/him if she/he can do it himself.
Help them develop self-feeding skills. Allow the child to eat increasingly challenging textures as she/he progresses. Adaptive equipment may be used if needed. Respect the child’s food preferences, eating space and whether or not she/he chooses to eat.
Try and set regular feeding timings. Special diets: Some of the children may require modifications in their diets and mealtime routine depending on their ability. Spastic children may struggle with different food textures. Thin liquids may be thickened and dry or lumpy foods can be chopped or softened to make it easier for the child to swallow.
A feeding tube may be used if required. Some children with disability have a tendency to be overweight making eating difficult. Children with autism have an altered sense of taste or smell affecting their acceptance of food. Depending on their choices extra fat, limited liquids, special formula or other dietary changes may be needed.
All foods to which a child with special needs is allergic should immediately be removed from her/his diet as it may cause damage.