Eating should be a happy time for kids and families, but sometimes there are underlying issues that make it difficult to enjoy. Host Natalie and Dr. Jen Arnold from Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital share their personal mom struggles, and Marybeth Smith, Speech-Language Pathologist at Johns Hopkins All Children's, shares some of the most common pediatric feeding problems and tips on how to make meal time successful.
Feeding tips:
- Keep feeding time happy, fun and positive.
- Avoid meals lasting an hour or more, force feeding or negative reactions to food.
- Schedule is important. Try to have 3 meals, 2 small snacks at the same time each day.
- Avoid constant snacking.
- Use a slow, calm gradual approach. Give your child small bites and choices.
If your child experiences gagging or choking on food or liquid, problems gaining weight; or ANY feeding difficulties, get a Feeding Evaluation with a Speech Therapist.
Visit HopkinsAllChildrens.org for more information.
