Infant Feeding Care

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Infant Feeding Care

Infant Feeding Care provides patient care, education, and research related to infant feeding.

04/11/2026

These two studies that used the PediEAT focused on infants and young children with congenital heart disease (CHD). ⁠
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What we found was that the prevalence of problematic feeding in infants with CHD was high - 90% at 6 months and 38% at 12 months. ⁠
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While there is generally improvement over time, in another study using the PediEAT, we found that even at 4-7 years of age, children with CHD have more symptoms of problematic feeding than their healthy peers. ⁠
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Similar to research in preterm-born children, feeding difficulties often don't resolve on their own in children with CHD. We need to monitor them closely for feeding difficulties to ensure we are providing them with the support that they need. ⁠
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The PediEAT can be very helpful for periodic assessment to identify children who need specialized feeding support. ⁠
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To read this paper go to: https://www.infantfeedingcare.com/publications-feeding-gi-symptoms/feeding-infants-with-chd-6-12-months

04/10/2026

In this study titled "Prevalence of Parent-Reported Problematic Eating Behaviors and Skills at 8-24 months of age in Infants Born at less than 34 weeks gestation", we followed a group of babies from birth in the NICU to 2 years old. Parents of these babies were asked to complete the PediEAT every few months.

We found that the prevalence of problematic feeding behaviors was around 43-344%, which is very similar to what I found in a meta-analysis of feeding difficulties in preterm-born children. In that meta-analysis of over 2000 children, I found that 42% had problematic feeding.

With about 10% of all babies being born preterm in the United States, and nearly half of them having problematic feeding, this is a big problem.

04/09/2026

In this 2019 paper titled "Symptoms of Feeding Problems in Preterm-born Children at 6 months to 7 years old", we compared over 250 children who had been born preterm (prior to 37 weeks) to a sample of full-term born children. It supported what most of us see in clinical practice: babies born more prematurely tend to have more feeding challenges.⁠
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Children who were born prior to 32 weeks are at highest risk, but children born between 32 and 37 weeks are also at higher risk than children born full-term. It is critically important that these children be monitored for feeding difficulties and that feeding support be put in place early to support their growth and development. ⁠
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To read this paper, click the link in by bio and then "Research Papers."⁠
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04/08/2026

The PediEAT has been used a number of research studies. One of the original studies that established the reference values for the PediEAT was a study of over 1100 healthy children between 6 months and 7 years old.

One of the most important findings from this study was that while Problematic Mealtime Behaviors tend to increase (scores go up) in toddler-hood then start to improve (decrease) around 5 years old, Selective & Restrictive Eating behaviors remain relatively low and are distinct from Problematic Mealtime Behaviors.

So, for children who are struggling with the sensory experiences of eating, the PediEAT can help capture that and identify whether the child's behaviors are within the range of typical or if they need help from a specialist.

To get the PediEAT Assessment Tool, go to the link in my bio and click on "Feeding & GI Assessment Tools".

To get the paper that I refer to in this post, go to the link in my bio and click on "Research Papers."
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The PediEAT is a parent-report (i.e., parents complete it) assessment that can help parents and healthcare providers better understand and address feeding challenges.

03/25/2026

Infant feeding difficulties rarely improve in a linear way. Usually, we can make some initial changes that result in some amount of improvement in feeding. But, then, there’s usually a period of time when improvement is inconsistent. There are feeds that are better, but then some not so much. There are days when things seem better, and then other days not so much. It can be frustrating and we often find ourselves wanting to make changes - change the ni**le, change the bottle, change the position, etc. BUT, when we’ve done an assessment and come up with a plan that appears safe for the baby and we’ve seen some improvement, often we just need to be consistent and patient and give them time to learn and build their skill at feeding.

03/20/2026

Feeding challenges can feel overwhelming at times, especially when you're unsure whether what you’re experiencing is normal or whether your child might need extra support. ⁠
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These helpful assessment tools were designed to bring clarity and reassurance. You can easily download them for free from my website, whether you're a parent or a healthcare professional.⁠ The PediEAT is now available in 13 languages!⁠
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If the scores fall outside the typical range, don't hesitate to share this information with your pediatrician or healthcare provider.⁠
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Remember, you're not alone in this. Organizations like Feeding Matters have a list of healthcare professionals who specialize in pediatric feeding issues. Recognizing patterns and seeking support is the first step toward helping your child thrive. Download the assessment tool today from my website! Link in bio.

03/19/2026

When reviewing feeding assessments, reference values can really help give you a clearer picture!⁠
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If your child scores below the 90th percentile, it’s usually a good sign that their eating habits are within the normal range for children their age. Scores below that might suggest they’re facing some feeding challenges, which could mean it’s helpful to explore further with your healthcare provider.⁠
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Remember, these scores aren’t a diagnosis. They’re simply tools to help spot patterns, identify potential concerns, and support meaningful conversations with your medical team. Think of them as one helpful piece of the bigger picture in understanding your child’s feeding journey!

03/18/2026

When looking at feeding challenges, I aim to get a full picture of the entire eating experience, rather than just focusing on bits and pieces!

The PediEAT tool looks at four main subscales:

• Physiologic Symptoms – signs like coughing, gagging, or discomfort
• Problematic Mealtime Behaviors – making mealtimes challenging
• Selective/Restrictive Eating – behaviors related to food variety, refusal of food textures, or extreme pickiness
• Oral Processing – how your child manages and moves food in their mouth

Bringing all these parts together helps us understand what occurs during meals, and the daily observations from parents are an incredibly valuable part of this assessment.

03/17/2026

As babies start exploring solid foods, parents often have a gut feeling when something doesn't seem quite right. That’s exactly why the PediEAT assessment was created. It's a simple, parent-friendly questionnaire that helps you understand your child's eating habits and behaviors as they begin their solid-food journey.

You know your child’s daily eating routine better than anyone else. The 78 clear questions focus on the everyday behaviors you observe, making it easier to share your insights. These insights can guide helpful conversations with healthcare providers and help identify when your child might need some extra support. Truly, understanding your child's feeding challenges starts with listening to the ones who care for them most — you!

03/05/2026

Feeding challenges can be complex. Assessment of feeding requires time, careful evaluation, and a thoughtful plan.⁠
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During my comprehensive appointments, I take the time to listen, review medical and family histories, complete a full physical exam, and thoroughly assess growth and feeding skills. Nothing is rushed, and nothing is overlooked.⁠
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Because when it comes to infant feeding, the details matter.⁠
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Learn more and schedule an appointment today. Link in bio!

06/18/2025

Feeding can be so hard. There are lots of people out there who can help, including me! If you are in Massachusetts, see the link in bio. If you are not in Massachusetts or not near me, Feeding Matters has a Provider Directory to help you locate a provider near you.

02/04/2025

LAST Reminder! THIS Friday!

Feeding Assessment Tools & Clinical Case Studies!

If you are not familiar with Britt Pados or her assessment tools and you are treating pediatric feeding, please take some time to dig into the tools and her work! (or...join this webinar 😀)

https://www.infantfeedingcare.com/britt

registration info - live courses in bio OR
👉https://www.knowledgeisnow.com/courses/february-7th-2025-live-webinar-assessment-of-feeding-challenges-in-pediatrics-parent-reported-tools-and-clinical-case-studies/

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One Hollis Street, Suite 215
Wellesley, MA
02482

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https://www.infantfeedingcare.com/

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