How To

How to Feed a Child With Cerebral Palsy

Contributor
By premonitions
eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)

Follow these steps to help a child with cerebral palsy eat.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Place the child in a booster chair securely, or if the child is older, sit him in a regular chair, ensuring that both chairs are secure and safe to sit in. A booster requires a small tray that lays across the front of the child, which usually locks into place.

  2. Step 2

    Unfold a napkin or paper towel for cleanup in the child’s lap. This will ensure that if anything is spilled, the child’s clothing will not become dirty.

  3. Step 3

    Place another napkin or paper towel underneath the chin by tucking it securely in the child’s shirt. Fold the napkin or paper towel in the corners by bending it in a triangle shape to fit inside the clothing.

  4. Step 4

    Place a plate in front of the child. Using a spoon or a fork, pick up or scoop the food onto the utensils and slowly bring the utensil with the food to the child’s mouth.

  5. Step 5

    If the child is unable to open her mouth, place your thumb on the child’s chin to open the mouth. Or place your thumb on one side of the jaw and your index finger on the other side and gently pull down.

  6. Step 6

    If the child has a difficult time chewing, after placing the food within his mouth, place the palm of your hand underneath the chin. This for a moment will hold the food inside the mouth. Place the utensil back on the plate and close the child’s mouth, rotating the chin and jaw so that the food will be properly chewed.

  7. Step 7

    Once that first bite is accomplished, repeat these steps until the meal is finished.

Tips & Warnings
  • In case of choking, place the palms of your hands around the child's rib cage and gently press until the object has dislodged. Or turn the child across your lap and gently tap twice on the back.
  • If chewed the wrong way or the child does not produce enough saliva, it’s likely that the food could go down the wrong way.

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