Nutrition for children with cerebral palsy: birth to 6 years (plain language)
Good nutrition helps babies and young children with cerebral palsy (CP) grow, develop and stay healthy.
Some children with CP may need extra support with eating, drinking or swallowing. The right support can help your child get the nutrition and fluids they need and eat and drink as safely as possible.
Get help with eating, drinking or swallowing
If your child has trouble eating, drinking or swallowing, talk to their healthcare team early.
Swallowing difficulties can sometimes cause food, drink or saliva to enter the airway or lungs. This is called aspiration. Aspiration can contribute to chest infections.
How good nutrition can support your child
Good nutrition can support your child’s:
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growth and development
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energy for everyday activities
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bones and muscles
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immune system
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recovery after illness or surgery
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overall health and wellbeing.
Find the right feeding and nutrition support
A feeding and swallowing assessment can help identify difficulties and help your healthcare team work out what support your child may need.
Your child’s healthcare team may include a:
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dietitian
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speech pathologist
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occupational therapist
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physiotherapist
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doctor or other health professional.
Depending on your child’s needs, support may include:
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changing mealtime routines or your child’s position
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changing the texture of food or thickness of drinks, if recommended after an assessment
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preparing food differently, such as mashing or pureeing it
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advice about energy and nutrients
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treatment for reflux, constipation or other digestive problems
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nutrition supplements
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specialised feeding equipment
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tube feeding, if needed.
Review your child’s needs as they grow
Your child’s feeding and nutrition needs may change as they grow. Regular reviews can help make sure their support continues to meet their needs.
Talk to your child’s healthcare team
If you have concerns about your child’s nutrition, growth, eating, drinking or swallowing, talk to your:
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GP
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maternal and child health nurse
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paediatrician
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healthcare team.
