HELPING FAMILIES MEET THE NUTRITIONAL NEEDS OF CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES - AN INTEGRATED MODEL

Children with disabilities need adequate nutritional intake to survive and thrive. Many are at risk and in need of nutritional intervention. In this study we evaluated the outcomes of nutrition services for chi ldren with disabilities and their families using an integrated model o f feeding and nutrition. Thirty-five children and families who receive d nutrition intervention services participated in the study. Children with disabilities and inadequate nutrition significantly benefited fro m nutrition intervention services. Children increased in weight-for-he ight ratios. Families reported increased alertness for their children with improved nutritional status. Families of children with greater fe eding difficulties experienced increased stress and decreased social s upport. These findings can help families and professionals work in par tnership to meet the nutrition needs of children with disabilities and chronic health care problems before a child becomes severely malnouri shed or a family becomes dysfunctional.