| Description |
Feeding is a complex, developmental process that involves physiological development, oral-motor strength and coordination skills, gastrointestinal system, sensory components, and emotions. Providers and caregivers need to assess supported seating options to ensure postural support and stability to allow children to use oral motor skills and coordination as they eat a variety of food tastes, textures, and temperatures. It is important for the therapy team to educate caregivers and support responsive feeding strategies in a stress-free mealtime environment with consistency. Feeding experiences should foster child engagement with enjoyable mealtime experiences and mutual trust for optimal growth and development.
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