Marston, Emma

Feeding children is part of family caregiving. Children with Down syndrome have increased risks for feeding problems, but there is limited literature on caregiving specific to feeding children with Down syndrome. The purpose of this study is to understand mothers’ experiences related to feeding their 3- to 10-year-old children with Down syndrome within family and sociocultural contexts. This was a qualitative study using interviews and photo-elicitation. Twenty-nine mothers of children with Down syndrome in the United States participated. Three themes were identified: (a) Feeding Challenges and Foodwork Related to the Child’s Feeding Attributes, (b) Family Dynamics and Routines that Impact Foodwork, and (c) Influence of Family and Sociocultural Norms on Feeding Experiences. Mothers engage in complex family caregiving work to feed their children with Down syndrome. Feeding can be influenced by child and family characteristics and by sociocultural contexts. Findings have implications for clinical practice and research.

ABSTRACT Background Feeding is an important health consideration for children with Down syndrome due to their increased risks for feeding challenges and overweight/obesity. Healthcare providers play an important role in providing feeding guidance to families; however, there is limited research on feeding children with Down syndrome and the role of healthcare providers. The purpose of this study is to explore how interactions with healthcare providers contribute to mothers' experiences feeding their children with Down syndrome. Methods In this qualitative study, 29 mothers of children with Down syndrome aged 3–10 years completed semi‐structured interviews. Results Three themes were identified: (1) Access, provider expertise and maternal concerns, (2) Infant feeding experiences matter and (3) Mothers are experts on and advocates for their children. Conclusion Gaps in care were identified for children with Down syndrome and their families. Findings have implications for clinical practice and research related to feeding children with Down syndrome.