Table 1 Key questions to ask parents for assessment of feeding/swallowing problems in children with cerebral palsy

From: Nutritional management of children with cerebral palsy: a practical guide

Questions

Red flags

How long does it take to feed your child?

More than 30 min, on any regular basis

Are meal times stressful to child or parent?

Yes, if one or other, or both

Is your child gaining weight adequately?

Lack of weight gain over 2–3 months in young child, not just weight loss

Are there signs of respiratory problems?

Increased congestion at meal times, ‘gurgly’ voice, respiratory illnesses