Paediatric Feeding & Swallowing Assessment
Why do we require an assessment?
The first step towards putting together a successful feeding therapy or tube weaning plan must always begin with a holistic and comprehensive assessment.
With a multidisciplinary team who are passionate about the area of paediatric feeding, we pride ourselves on our ability to complete an accurate assessment and diagnostic process that will help us understand the primary aetiology behind the feeding difficulties that your child is presenting with.
Understanding the aetiology of your child’s feeding difficulties is an important step towards choosing the most appropriate therapy approach.
What is involved?
You will complete an interview with your child’s feeding therapist either in person or over the phone. This will help us to understand the history of your child’s feeding challenges, referrals that may be required, and the most appropriate therapy approach.
Your child will be observed eating and drinking their preferred foods. We may also ask you to offer a non preferred food during this appointment. This observation will help us to assess your child’s swallowing skills, and determine whether there is any dysphagia (swallowing disorder) present.
You will be asked to complete a food diary for our dietitians to analyse. This will help us to understand whether there are any nutrient or calorie deficits, and make recommendations for supplementation if required.
You will be provided with a comprehensive written report, including referral recommendations as required.
Assessment results are explained in detail, and your feeding therapy journey with The Paediatric Feeding Clinic begins!
Your feeding therapy team may consist of:
Speech Pathologists
Occupational Therapists
Registered Dietitians
Physiotherapists
We also work closely with:
Paediatricians
General Practitioners
Paediatric Gastroenterologists
Paediatric Allergists
Paediatric Surgeons
Clinical Psychologists
Ear, Nose, & Throat Surgeons
Our collaborative service delivery model ensures that we are able to provide accurate diagnosis and tailored therapy solutions that meet the individual needs of each child.
