Feeding Disorders in Children

Pediatric Feeding Disorders (PFDs) are conditions characterized by persistent difficulties in food intake, commonly manifesting as food selectivity, food refusal, and dysfunctional mealtime behaviors. Their prevalence in the general pediatric population ranges from 3% to 10%, with substantially higher rates reported among children with neurodevelopmental disorders. The impact of PFDs extends beyond growth and nutritional status, affecting cognitive and emotional development as well as the well-being of the entire family system. Although several treatment models have been proposed, scientific evidence supporting outpatient interventions remains limited and Italy-specific studies are lacking. Moreover, despite the availability of standardized assessment tools, feeding-related outcomes are not yet systematically addressed within outpatient clinical practice for children with neurodevelopmental disorders. The present study aims to evaluate whether an interdisciplinary intervention protocol involving a psychologist, a speech and language therapist (SLP), and a Neuro and Psychomotor Therapist of Developmental Age (TNPEE) can improve food variety and reduce dysfunctional mealtime behaviors in this population. The study is designed as a pilot randomized controlled trial developed across five sequential phases: participant enrollment and screening using the Montreal Children's Hospital Feeding Scale (MCH-FS); baseline standardized assessment (T0) using the Pediatric Eating Assessment…

This description comes directly from the study's public registry record.

Elena Cavalieri, SLP  ·  +39 0652253440  ·  elena.cavalieri@unicatt.it

Lucia Gatta  ·  +39 0652253440  ·  lucia.gatta@sanraffaele.it

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