Pediatric Dysphagia 

Overall goal: To foster independence with eating and increase swallow safety by controlling bolus size or achieving the optimal flow rate of liquids (ASHA)

Individual goal:  Child will accept bite, with good bolus formation and control, and transfer posteriorly for the swallow by using the spoon technique. 

Child or Infant performance during feedings determine approach (Miller, 2011)

Including: 

• Structural abnormalities

• Diagnosis (medical & speech)

• Physical & motor abilities

Spoon technique:  Full acceptance of the spoon (small spoon) with proper tongue placement and lip closure to clear spoon 

Modified nipples: Individual bottle selection considers appropriate flow rate to facilitate coordination of suck-swallow-breathe in infants with feeding difficulty. Appropriate nipple selection in infancy (Suburban Speech Center)

Cut-out cups: Facilitate drinking without neck extension

Mesh feeders: Development of rotary chewing pattern without the need of bolus control

Images pulled from google 

SLPs are responsible for the oral and pharyngeal implications of adaptive equipment. If needed, SLPs will consult with occupational therapists for motor control of this adaptive equipment is critical (ASHA)