Identification of feeding and nutrition problems in young children with neuromotor involvement: a self-assessment

The purpose of this article is to provide information needed to identify feeding and nutrition problems in children from birth to twenty-four months. Oral-motor and self-feeding skill development should be viewed within the framework of overall development and changing nutrition needs. Neuromotor dysfunction affects feeding and nutrition through changes in muscle tone, reflexes and the response to sensory stimulation. Nutrient compromises, including delays in texture progression, decreased fluid intake, and problems associated with self-feeding and food selection must be considered when assessing the nutrition/feeding needs of children. Successful completion of the self-assessment can be used to check the reader's basic understanding of the subject.