Sensory processing considerations in Australian paediatric feeding guidelines: A scoping review

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Nutrition
• Developmental Psychology
• Clinical Dietetics

Background:

• Feeding development is a complex process influenced by sensory, physical, and social factors.
• Suboptimal feeding development can lead to feeding disorders in children.
• Sensory feeding encompasses sensory processing and oral motor skills within environmental contexts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review sensory feeding recommendations for children aged 0-5 years within Australian paediatric feeding guidelines.
• To identify the extent and nature of sensory feeding advice available to healthcare professionals.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology and PRISMA-ScR guidelines.
• Australian paediatric feeding guidelines were identified through empirical databases, grey literature, and targeted websites.
• Content analysis was employed to extract and categorize sensory feeding recommendations.

Main Results:

• Thirteen guidelines met the inclusion criteria.
• Key categories of recommendations included acceptance of new food properties (85%), progression of textures (69%), and timing (77%).
• Overall, recommendations lacked detail, explicit advice, and consistency, with limited focus on homemade vs. commercial foods and broader contexts.

Conclusions:

• Australian paediatric feeding guidelines provide insufficient detail on sensory feeding for professionals.
• Incorporating comprehensive sensory feeding information is essential for supporting healthy eating habits and improving feeding outcomes in children.
• Professionals require enhanced guidance to effectively address sensory aspects of feeding development.