We are here to support students with feeding and swallowing difficulties to become safe and independent eaters by providing school staff with student-specific recommendations while in the school setting.

Our goal is to keep children safe while eating and drinking at school, ensure adequate nutrition for optimal learning, and work toward student independence during mealtime.

We will consult with and educate school staff as needed to ensure proper supervision and the safest environment possible.

Do you have students with any of these concerns while eating or drinking?

• Coughing or choking

• Wet, gurgly sounding voice; frequent throat clearing

• Excessive, effortful chewing

• Multiple swallows on a single mouthful of food

• Harsh, hoarse, breathy voice

• Fatigue/shortness of breath when eating

• Food selectivity, refusal

MIU IV Feeding and Swallowing team members will provide an evaluation including complete birth, medical and feeding history; oral motor evaluation; meal observation and assessment; diet recommendations; strategies for safe and adequate intake during school meals; equipment recommendations and supplies; supervision requirements; as well as staff and parent education to include participation in meetings and quick reference feeding guidelines.

• Posture and positioning

• Dietary changes (caloric enhancement per dietitian, as well as texture, taste, temperature alterations of food and liquid)

• Utensil modifications

• Broad-based sensory approaches

• Caregiver education and training

Join Nico, Gabby and Keisha on their first day of lunch in the school cafeteria! They are so excited to eat like the big kids, but aren't exactly sure how they're supposed to behave. Help them learn rules to keep them safe while eating and drinking at school with the use of a familiar song and fun game!

For more information or questions, please contact:

Richael Fertig

richael.fertig@miu4.org

724-287-4156