Description and Evaluation of a Day-Centre-Based Behavioural Feeding Programme for Young Children and their Parents

Abstract

A day-centre-based feeding programme is described in which families who have young children with severe and chronic eating problems attend for one morning once every two weeks for 12 attendances. It is a focused, change-directed programme that treats a wide range of eating problems. The approach is based on behavioural management strategies in a biopsychosocial model of assessment and treatment. The issues and choices in the development of this programme are discussed. An evaluation questionnaire directed specifically at outcome criteria for young children with feeding problems is included. Results of evaluations from parents and clinicians using this questionnaire indicate that it successfully identifies clinical change relevant to the goals of treatment. Data are presented on the outcome of intervention.