ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to infants and children with specific feeding problems that, if not addressed, would adversely affect the child's nutrition and growth. It does not, however, address in detail problems that are primarily behavioral in nature or a result of parental misperception. Feeding problems can cause a disruption in family dynamics. In order to assess such problems accurately and intervene therapeutically, a team
approach is recommended. The professional members of the feeding team should include a gastroenterologist, an occupational therapist, speech therapist, dietitian, psychologist, nurse, and sometimes a social worker (3). In cases of pediatric patients with neurological disabilities, the evaluation should encompass the child's ability to suck, masticate, and swallow and control head and trunk as well as his or her nutritional and neurological status and the family's desires and expectations in regard to the child's feeding capabilities.
