What to Expect from a Child Health Consultation for Failure to Thrive

The clinician reviews previous weight, length or height, head measurement when relevant, and the pattern on growth charts. They will ask about feeds, appetite, portions, vomiting, stools, allergies, chewing or swallowing, sleep, activity, and development.

The examination may look for signs of dehydration, chronic illness, nutritional deficiency, or difficulty absorbing food. The discussion can also cover household routines, food access, and mealtime stress. Faltering growth is a finding that needs assessment, not a judgment about parenting.

Bring growth records, a list of medicines and supplements, and a few days of notes about meals, drinks, vomiting, stools, and appetite. Write down foods your child accepts or refuses and any coughing, choking, or tiring during meals.

Follow the agreed feeding plan and avoid pressuring your child to eat. The clinician may arrange a dietitian, feeding specialist, or further tests when the history or examination suggests they could help.

Seek prompt medical help if your child cannot keep fluids down, has markedly fewer wet nappies, is unusually sleepy, has breathing difficulty, chokes repeatedly during feeds, or appears suddenly much less well. Contact the care team if intake falls or the feeding plan becomes unsafe or impossible.

Ask how your child’s growth pattern is changing, what intake is appropriate, which foods or textures to offer, what signs suggest dehydration, whether a specialist referral is needed, and when measurements should be repeated.