Oral-pharyngeal development and evaluation.

The recognition and evaluation of deficits and abnormalities related to the development of feeding require comprehensive and systematic observation. This article describes both gross and fine motor coordination, as well as primitive reflexive movement, which influence eating. Oral-pharyngeal reflexes, the function of the tongue, oral hygiene, and the condition of the teeth are described relative to their influence on the feeding process. The development of eating behaviors of children are briefly outlined.