Implementation of a therapeutic education programme for paediatric feeding disorders in primary care: a first experience in Hauts-de-France

Isabelle Chardonnet; Matthieu Calafiore; Jan Baran

doi:10.3399/bjgp26X745569

Abstract

Background Paediatric feeding disorders (PFDs) are common but often underrecognised in primary care. Families frequently face long diagnostic delays and fragmented management. Therapeutic patient education (TPE) programmes exist in hospital settings but remain rare in community care.

Aim To design and implement a structured, multidisciplinary TPE programme for children with PFD and their parents, adapted to a primary care context.

Method The pilot programme was launched in February 2025 within the Maison de Santé Pluriprofessionnelle Universitaire Corneille (MSPU; Hauts-de-France). It was developed by a primary care team in partnership with the regional CPTS (Communauté Professionnelle Territoriale de Santé), which will provide ongoing financial support to extend the initiative. This programme consists of five 2-hour workshops involving one child (aged 3–8 years) and at least one parent per session. Each group includes six children and 14 parents, supervised by three health professionals — always including a speech therapist — trained in TPE and non-violent communication. Sessions cover eating mechanisms, posture, nutrition, sensory exploration, and emotional regulation.

Results The first cycle involved six children and their families. Early feedback indicates high engagement, improved parental confidence, and observed progress in children’s mealtime comfort. Twenty-four additional families are already registered and awaiting the next series of workshops planned for late 2025.

Conclusion This first TPE programme for PFD implemented in primary care demonstrates feasibility, strong acceptability, and interprofessional collaboration. It offers a promising model for community-based management of complex paediatric feeding issues.

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Implementation of a therapeutic education programme for paediatric feeding disorders in primary care: a first experience in Hauts-de-France

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