MEALTIME AND ITS CHALLENGES: FIRST-PERSON EXPERIENCE

Abstract

Feeding difficulties occur in 49%-80% of children with developmental disorders and complex medical conditions. Speech therapy studies and intervenes on swallowing and eating difficulties in different age ranges. When faced with feeding difficulties, mealtime, instead of being a simple part of the day's routine, can become very stressful for the child and those who care for him/her.

Describe a mother's experience of feeding a child with a complex chronic condition and feeding challenges.

This study corresponds to a qualitative study, understanding the reflective nature, and information gathering from the personal experience of the participants.

The interview lasted 40 minutes, which was carried out virtually during the month of October 2021 given the context of isolation due to the SARS COVID 19 pandemic. The participant is a mother of a child (whom we will call Juan) with developmental difficulties. Different thematic axes emerged from the interview, among which are mentioned: Food textures, socialization aspects, professional support, context adaptations, environment and positioning, the role of care, Breastfeeding, the role of the interdisciplinary team.