Feeding problems in children are common and determined by multiple factors, both medical and behavioral.

To optimize success in addressing behavioral factors related to eating, evaluation of medical components must occur prior to scheduling an appointment.

• Selective (“picky”) eaters
• Difficult mealtime behaviors (e.g. throwing foods; leaving table)
• Children with slow weight gain (but are above the 3rd percentile and/or not medically fragile)

Children with the following conditions will not be able to be seen in this clinic due to either the complicated medical factors (requiring an interdisciplinary team approach) or being better suited to other services:

• NG or G-tube feeding, including patients who are transitioning out of tube feeds
• >Below the 3rd percentile for weight
• Children who have never eaten solid foods and have not had an evaluation by occupational or speech therapy to provide clearance for the advancement of solid foods
• Older children or adolescents with body image distortions or symptoms suggestive of eating disorders

• Referral to occupational therapy and/or speech therapy for full evaluation of oral-motor skills related to feeding
• Screening for any symptoms suspicious for GERD with treatment as appropriate

Parents/caretakers are asked to assemble previous evaluations if external to UMHS. Parents will receive the diet diaries to complete and bring to their first appointment.