by Gráinne Connolly
The Southern Trust has hosted an information event for parents, carers and health professionals to address feeding challenges with babies and children.
Feeding difficulties can occur in around 25% to 45% of typically developing children but are more common in children with a disability.
Minor issues can include weaning and fussy habits although there are more serious challenges that can result from medical or structural problems like allergies, swallowing difficulties, reflux, and cleft palate.
The Trust's Specialist Paediatric Feeding Team which includes Paediatricians, Dietitians and Speech and Language Therapists, were on hand with advice and information and some parents also shared their own personal experiences of overcoming feeding issues.
The event also aimed to help raise awareness amongst other professionals of the specialist feeding support and advice available when supporting families.
Speaking at the event organised to mark the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapy - Swallowing Awareness Day, Dr Sarinda Millar, Consultant Paediatrician who oversees the Paediatric Feeding Clinic for the Southern Trust explains:
"Good nutrition is so important for growth and development and giving your baby the best start in life, so it is understandable that many parents can find it stressful if their child has feeding challenges.
"We hope that parents and carers find today reassuring to learn that they are not alone and to know that there is help and support available to overcome the challenges to ensure that their child can get the nourishment they need."
Parents or carers worried about their child's feeding should speak to their Health Visitor or GP in the first instance who will refer them to the Paediatric Feeding Team if necessary. Children attending the Child Development Clinic or a Special School can receive support from professionals in these teams.
To find out more about Swallowing Awareness Day go to https://www.rcslt.org/
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