Pediatric Feeding Therapy: AEIOU
Ben Robinson, OTR/L
Ben Robison MOT, OTR/L recently completed a course regarding pediatric feeding therapy and wanted to share some knowledge that may impact families in our community.
Pediatric Feeding Therapy: AEIOU
The course is called AEIOU and each letter in the program stands for an important aspect of feeding. The letters have an aspect that applies to the child and one that applies to the caregiver, as feeding is interactive and occurs between the individual and the family.
The A stands for acceptance. From the parent perspective, the A means that the parent accepts the child and his/her strengths and limitations. That may mean acknowledging the impact of medical conditions, sensory difficulties, and how the interaction of the parent/child relationship affects feeding. For the child, acceptance asks whether the child is accepting a wide variety of foods. Research shows that variety stimulates volume of intake.
E is for exposure: exposing the child to a wide variety of foods, brands, and portions. Research shows that we all may need between 10 and 15 exposures to a food before we like it. Liking food can take practice. Some families report that their child will only eat Yoplait strawberry yogurt. Have they been exposed to other brands? Other flavors? The exposure element also addresses how they are exposed. Is it a pleasant exposure? Is it coercive? What is the structure, routine, and schedule of feeding? All these elements must be considered.
The I stands for feeding independence for the child. A question to consider would be what is getting in the way of the child’s feeding independence? How does the caregiver support independence? The caregiver still has responsibility to provide the structure, the food opportunities, and the routine. The child then independently does or does not eat. The family must reflect on whether the child has had the opportunity to self-feed or is the caregiver always taking over that skill. The caregiver must also analyze if the child’s posture and stability may be affecting independence.
O is for observation: does the child have a chance to observe the family eating the same foods as presented to the child. We all learn from observation. Mirror neurons in our brain help us mimic skills seen performed by others. If children never have the opportunity to observe the family eat the same foods, they are missing out on a vital element in their learning.
The final letter is U for understanding. Communication with our children should be a two-way street. Caregivers need to be aware and follow child cues, observe for signs of distress, and not push children beyond their limits. One coercive feeding experience is enough to permanently alter the relationship of the child and that particular food. One instance can have life-long consequences. It is thus vital to be emotionally attuned to our children and provide a supportive environment so that they can be exposed to food in a positive light.
There is so much great information out there that can help families. Ability Innovations has some great feeding therapist who can help answer questions and address needs. We are here to help and always happy to share what we know. Happy eating!
