A multiprofessional children's feeding clinic.

A paediatric dietitian, occupational therapist and speech and language therapist describe how they jointly run a feeding clinic for infants and children with feeding difficulties. Conditions treated include cerebral palsy, autism, learned aversion following severe gastro-oesophageal reflux, and delayed oral development that affects feeding. The therapists' co-ordinated approach enables parents to receive clear guidance on feeding at one combined appointment, without the inconvenience of having to attend three separate appointments. The article outlines the role of each therapist, with examples of how they assess and alleviate the children's problems. The need for safety, nutrition and hydration is balanced against the desire for developmental progress in a holistic approach involving all three therapy disciplines. The aim of the feeding clinic is to provide advice, support and intervention plans to help make feeding a pleasurable and safe experience for all the children who attend.