Plain language nutrition information for children and young people aged 7–17 years
Good nutrition can help children and young people with cerebral palsy (CP) grow, stay healthy and have energy for school, activities and everyday life. It can also support healthy bones and muscles, the immune system, and recovery from illness or surgery.
Get support with eating, drinking or swallowing
Some children and young people with CP may find eating, drinking or swallowing difficult. This can make it harder to get enough nutrition and fluids. It can also affect how safely and effectively they eat and drink.
Swallowing difficulties can increae the risk of food, drink or saliva to enter the airway or lungs. This is called aspiration. Aspiration can contribute to chest infections.
Understand what can affect nutrition
There are many reasons why a child or young person with CP may find it harder to get the nutrition they need. They may:
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have difficulty chewing or swallowing
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take a long time to eat or become tired during meals
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need help to eat or drink
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have reflux or constipation
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have a reduced appetite
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have frequent illnesses or hospital stays
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need food or drinks with a different texture or thickness
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find it difficult to eat at school or away from home.
Find the right feeding and nutrition support
A feeding and swallowing assessment can help identify any difficulties and work out what support is needed.
Your child or young person’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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other medical or health professional.
The healthcare team can also monitor growth and nutrition needs as your child gets older.
Depending on their needs, support may include:
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changing mealtime routines or positioning
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making sure they get enough energy, nutrients and fluids
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changing the texture of food or thickness of drinks, if recommended after an assessment
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managing reflux, constipation or other digestive problems
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using nutritional supplements, if needed
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using specialised feeding equipment
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support to eat and drink at school or during social activities
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tube feeding, if needed.
Review nutrition needs as they grow
Nutrition needs can change as children and young people grow. Puberty, growth, activity, medicines, health conditions and increasing independence can all affect eating and nutrition.
Regular reviews can help make sure their support continues to meet their needs and goals.
When to talk to the healthcare team
If you are concerned about your child or young person’s nutrition, growth, eating, drinking or swallowing, talk to their GP, paediatrician or healthcare team.
