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FACTS:

•  A child with a feeding disorder may not be able to suck on a bottle, take food from a spoon, chew food, or accept certain types and textures of food.  In other cases, children may stuff too much food into their mouths.
• Feeding disorders may or may not accompany other medical issues.
• Oral aversion may be present when a child will not eat certain textures, tastes, or colors of food.  Some children will refuse by crying, pushing the food away, or gagging.  Children with oral aversion often like foods that have little flavor and a smooth, creamy texture. 
• A hyposensitive child likes foods that have strong flavors and crunchy textures. The child may stuff his mouth full of food or store food in his cheeks or the roof of the mouth and keep it there for a long time.  The child may also bite or chew on others, clothing, or objects.
• A child with oral motor issues may have weak muscles in the lips, tongue, and jaw may be weak or have limited movement and difficulty chewing.  The tongue may rest in a forward position on the lower lip.  The child’s mouth may be open most of the time.

TREATMENT:

Children should be seen by a physician and occupational therapist specializing in treating feeding and swallowing disorders.

For children with oral aversion:

• Never force a child to eat.
• Offer foods that are bland in flavor and smooth in texture.
• Cover disliked foods in a well-loved food.
• Offer foods that are room temperature to warm.

For children who are hyposensitive:

• Chill foods and liquids.
• Add flavor or texture to food.
• Remind the child to eat and swallow one bite of food before taking the next bite.
• Give food items that are chewy, crunchy, or sour.

For children with oral motor issues:

• Spoon may be presented in a sideways position.
• Never press against the tongue to keep it inside the mouth.
• Food should be chilled.
• Liquids may be given using a regular rimmed cup.
• Child may use a straw to drink liquids.
• Child may blow horns, whistles and bubbles.