School can be a challenge for some families who have children with special health care needs. For example, they must determine how their child’s nutrition plan will fit into the school day. Dietitians play an integral role in assisting families with this process. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act, any child with a “physical […]
There are several reasons why children may need enteral tube feeding. They may have a medical condition affecting their airway and/or gastrointestinal tract or refuse food due to sensory or behavioral issues. When a family and care team decide an infant, child, or adolescent requires tube feedings, either a nasal tube is placed or a […]
Many children live with special needs due to disorders such as cerebral palsy, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder. These conditions can affect muscles, senses, and cognitive development, impacting children’s oral feeding abilities, self-feeding skills, and sensory system functioning. As a result, their nutrition status may suffer. RDs can make a tremendous difference in the lives […]
