Feeding & Infants
When it comes to feeding and infants there are many different routes to take depending on the individual needs of the infant and what works best in the family’s schedule. Occupational therapists will usually do a feeding assessment if feeding is a concern, in order to observe motor, sensory, and oral motor control. The normal feeding routine will also be addressed in order to determine the family’s typical mealtimes, where the infant eats, and who typically feeds them.
If feeding is a concern… Signs you may see when feeding…
- Coughing
- Gauging
- Increased need to breathe
- Struggling to maintain grasp on bottle or breast
Suck swallow breathe (SSB)
Suck swallow breathe is a pattern learned in utero to allow the infant to breathe and eat simultaneously, preventing choking. If an infant has a strong suck, but difficulty with feeding the issue is likely related to the SSB coordination. If this is the case suggestions to assist in feeding can include:
- Side lying position while holding the bottle horizontally
- Sitting on the couch with your knees up having the infant on your thighs for feeding
- Pacing
- Stopping flow of milk (tilt bottle down)
- Using a slower flow bottle nipple
Weak oral motor muscles
When it comes to an infant having weak oral motor muscles, this can be seen through feeding by an infant having a weak suck. If this is the case suggestions to help with feeding can include:
- During feeding have the infant supported in slight flexion (like in the top picture)
- Use faster flow bottle nipples
Breastfeeding
If not bottle feeding, mothers can also breastfeed their infants. With breastfeeding, infants will still need the ability to have the suck, swallow, breathe pattern and to use their oral motor muscles to latch onto the nipple and obtain the milk. There are 3 steps to help the infant get a strong grasp on the nipple.
Latch 1,2,3
-
- Bring baby to breast
- Tummy to tummy
- Have the baby’s tummy against your own
- Nose at nipple
- Baby will smell milk and begin to open mouth
Breastfeeding Benefits For Baby:
- Provides baby with nutrients
- Lower risk for SIDS, obesity, asthma
- Builds stronger bond with mom and baby
- Stronger protection from illness
Breastfeeding Benefits For Mom:
- Reduces the risk of breast cancer and postpartum depression
- Builds stronger bond with mom and baby
- Decreases stress levels
Role of OT and Breastfeeding
Occupational therapists can help to educate parents and caregivers about breastfeeding, the benefits, and how to develop a routine with breastfeeding. OTs can also assess the surrounding environments to determine any obstacles and which interventions would work best for the baby and the mother.
Positioning
When it comes time for a child to participate in self feeding, positioning can be extremely important to make sure the child is secure and comfortable to support their focus and coordination. What to look for:
- Make sure their hips and back are supported
- Making sure they are well aligned and seated upright
