Feeding Issues

Feeding Issues

Children with Down syndrome can be just as fussy as any other child when it comes to food. Some young babies will want to drink milk only and are not interested in solids. Some toddlers only want to eat "mushy" food with no texture. Some children will want to eat the same thing every day for months.

While all of these things can be issues for parents, as long as the child is happy and healthy most nutritionists would advise that you keep offering new foods and eventually they will be accepted. Most teenagers with Down syndrome eat a wide range of foods.

Articles and Information

From Milk to Table Foods : A Parent's Guide to Introducing Food Textures by Joan Medlen

Moving Ahead with Food : Matching Oral Motor Skills and Food Textures

Eating Right - A primer for parents of children with disabilities

Picky Eaters - Why it is normal for children to be picky eaters

Supporting feeding and oral development in young children - booklet to download at www.downsyndrome.ie/

Feeding and swallowing difficulties in children with Down syndrome (Frequently Asked Questions)

Suggestions for enhancing feeding skills and language developments

Finally, there is help for your picky eater!

Weight Mangement in Down Syndrome : The School Age and Adolescent Years by Joan E. Medlen, R.D.

Resources

Ernsperger, Lori and Tania Stegen-Hanson Just Take A Bite : Easy Effective Answers to Food Aversions and Eating Challenges

Fraker, Cheryl et al. Food Chaining: The Proven 6 Step Plan to Stop Picky Eating, Solve Feeding Problems and Expand Your Child's Diet

Medical and Surgical Care for Children with Down Syndrome

Medlen, Joan E. The Down Syndrome Nutrition Handbook

Sanderson, Sheri Incredible Edible - Gluten-Free Food for Kids