When mealtimes become stressful for babies and young children, parents often turn to the internet or social media for answers, only to be met with conflicting advice and persistent myths. Understanding a few key, scientifically supported facts about feeding and swallowing can help cut through the noise and bring confidence, calm, and even joy back to the table.
As feeding specialists, we’re here to clear the confusion. Below are three of the most common questions parents ask:
1. Is picky eating normal?
Picky eating is common between ages 2 and 5, but if it lasts more than two years, includes fewer than 10 foods, or eliminates entire food groups, it may indicate Pediatric Feeding Disorder (PFD). Around 50% of children with feeding issues need specialized support.
2. Are tongue ties a fad?
Tongue ties have always existed. What’s changed is awareness. Diagnosis should be based on function, not just appearance, and evaluated across all feeding types.
3. Can eating cause infections?
Yes. Improper tongue movement or reclined feeding can lead to food entering the lungs or ears, causing recurrent infections that need deeper evaluation.
For more Information about how we can assist you:
The Swallowing Wellness Center
4641 Montgomery Ave., Suite 300
Bethesda, MD 20814
(301) 288-1313
info@swallowingwellness.com
www.swallowingwellness.com
Who Can Help?
Call in an SLP
A Speech Language Pathologist can help uncover the root cause of feeding struggles.
More Than Speech
SLPs are experts in feeding, oral motor skills, and communication.
Connected Challenges
They address how feeding impacts ear health, milestones, and sensory needs.
Specialized Support Matters
Choose an SLP with training in pediatric feeding and swallowing.