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Mealtime Facts Every Parent Needs

Experts Answer Parents’ Top Feeding Questions

When mealtimes become stressful for babies and young children, parents often turn to the internet or social media for guidance—only to encounter conflicting advice and persistent myths. A few key, scientifically supported facts about feeding and swallowing can cut through the noise and restore confidence, calm, and even joy to the table.

As feeding specialists, the team at Swallowing Wellness Center addresses three of the most common questions parents ask:

1. Is picky eating normal?
 Picky eating is common between ages 2 and 5. However, if it lasts longer than two years, involves fewer than 10 foods, or eliminates entire food groups, it may signal Pediatric Feeding Disorder (PFD). Approximately 50% of children with feeding issues benefit from specialized support.

2. Are tongue ties a fad?
 Tongue ties have always existed. The difference today is greater awareness. Diagnosis should be based on function—not appearance alone—and evaluated across all feeding types.

3. Can eating cause infections?
 Yes. Inadequate tongue movement or reclined feeding positions can allow food to enter the lungs or ears, potentially leading to recurrent infections that require further evaluation.

Who Can Help?

  • Call in an SLP – A Speech Language Pathologist can uncover the root cause of feeding challenges.
  • More Than Speech – SLPs are trained in feeding, oral motor skills, and communication.
  • Connected Challenges – They address how feeding impacts ear health, developmental milestones, and sensory needs.
  • Specialized Support Matters – Look for an SLP with advanced training in pediatric feeding and swallowing.

Contact Swallowing Wellness Center
 4641 Montgomery Ave., Suite 300
 Bethesda, MD 20814
 (301) 288-1313
 info@swallowingwellness.com
 swallowingwellness.com

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