Nourishing Annie: A guide to eating and feeding

Annie's long term goal

Annie demonstrates safe, independent eating and drinking skills using age-appropriate utensils and cups. She requires supervision primarily for safety and to monitor for fatigue. She enjoys a variety of foods, and we continuously introduce new textures and flavors to expand her palate.

Annie's short term goals

Annie independently uses a child-sized fork and/or spoon to self-feed appropriate textures for the majority of her meal, needing only occasional setup or prompts.  She drinks from an open cup or straw cup with safe swallowing and minimal spilling in at least 4 out of 5 trials during mealtimes.   Furthermore, Annie effectively communicates her needs during meals, indicating when she is tired, “all done,” or needs a break using words, gestures, or signs in at least 4 out of 5 opportunities.

Assistive technology

Non-slip plates and bowls: Suction-base bowls or plates with rims and Dycem under dishes to prevent sliding, making self-feeding easier with bilateral mirror movements.