Author Archives: nutrfoc
27(2) Growth-related Updates in Children with Developmental Disabilities
Assessment of growth is essential for all children, but assumes more importance in the care of children with developmental disabilities due to the high risk of problems relating to growth these children may experience. This edition of Nutrition Focus will … Continue reading →
27(1) ASSESSMENT OF GROWTH: Part 2 Interpretation of Growth
Growth charts are a major tool used for the assessment of growth and health in infants and children. The charts can also be used as a screening tool by other health professionals for referral to nutrition services provided by the … Continue reading →
26(6) ASSESSMENT OF GROWTH: Part 1 Equipment, Technique and Growth Charts
Anthropometry is the measurement of body size, weight and proportion. In infants and children growth data, regularly obtained by accurate measurements, can be an indicator of health status and/or an effective screening tool for referral to nutrition services provided by … Continue reading →
26(5) FROM MILK TO TABLE FOODS: A Parent’s Guide To Introducing Food Textures
Learning to eat a variety of foods is something that is often taken for granted. As with most things, this process can take longer for babies and children with Down syndrome due to low muscle tone, muscle coordination problems, sensory … Continue reading →
26(4) Feeding Problems in Metabolic Disorders
Feeding problems in childhood are becoming more widely recognized. Metabolic dietitians are likely to encounter concerns regarding eating in their patients. A feeding problem can be viewed from many perspectives. For metabolic dietitians, a feeding problem can be defined as … Continue reading →
26(1) Nutrition Issues Facing Children with Special Health Care Needs in Early Intervention Programs and at School
Sound nutrition practices are necessary for the growth and development of all infants and children. Physical complications and emotional stresses of a disability or chronic illness may put a child at risk for nutrition related disorders. When a diet or … Continue reading →
25(6) Supporting Breastfeeding for the Infant with Special Health Care Needs
The arrival of a new baby brings joys and challenges to all families. Feeding is a major focus in the early weeks after birth, as mother and baby work together to establish breastfeeding. For most breastfeeding dyads this occurs easily, … Continue reading →
25(5) Nutrition Education for the Child with a Metabolic Disorder
This article describes the process of nutrition education for children with metabolic disorders using phenylketonuria (PKU) as a model. Although you may not work directly with this population of children, the article will assist you in recognizing what most pre-schoolers … Continue reading →
25(3) Nutrition and Constipation
Constipation is one of the most common concerns that parents/caregivers bring to health care professionals. For many parents, a child’s problems with constipation are quite obvious and can cause much worry. This edition of Nutrition Focus will discuss constipation and … Continue reading →
25(2) Practical Strategies to Enhance Nutrient and Energy Density of Oral Feedings for Children with Special Needs
Some children with special health care needs (CSHCN) may not consume adequate amounts of food to meet their energy and/or nutrient needs. This may compromise growth and overall health. The reasons for poor oral consumption are varied. Some children may … Continue reading →