ABSTRACT
When a parent presents with a problem related to feeding, a proper assessment of the situation is essential. Feeding problems in preschool children are extremely common. About 10% of young children will demonstrate some problem with food refusal at some stage during their childhood: possibly a third of five year olds have a mild to moderate eating problem. The majority of children presenting with feeding disorders are physically normal and thriving, but a small percentage may have rare medical problems. A general medical examination should assess nutritional status and ensure that the palate is intact: this can be done initially by the general practitioner. Babies are commonly weaned from a milk-only diet to one including solids at about six months of age. A number of toddlers go through a usually brief phase of experimenting with eating unpleasant substances. The age at which parents want a baby to give up the breast or bottle varies greatly.
