The Pediatric Feeding Program at CHOC was established to evaluate and treat children with significant feeding problems. Children who participate in the program typically have failed outpatient feeding therapy and have either a G-Tube (feeding tube) or are at risk for G-Tube placement. 

Children seen in the feeding program have a range of medical/developmental problems including cerebral palsy, developmental disorders, seizure disorders, genetic disorders, oral motor dysfunction, short-bowel syndrome, food allergies, history of prematurity and behavioral disorders. The multidisciplinary program includes specialists from gastroenterology, speech therapy, occupational therapy, psychology, social services, and nutrition.

The feeding program can include one or all of the following components: an initial screening, outpatient feeding evaluation, psychology/behavioral consultation and an intensive inpatient feeding program. After each stage, recommendations are made to best meet the patient/family’s goals for better feeding skills.