Effects of feeding behavior training on sensory processing and developmental areas in children with cerebral visual impairment: a randomized controlled study

To investigate the effects of feeding behavior training on feeding behavior, sensory processing, and developmental outcomes in children with cerebral palsy (CP) and cerebral visual impairment (CVI). This study included 40 children aged 48–60 months diagnosed with CP and CVI who had feeding behavior problems. Participants were randomly assigned to either an intervention group (n = 20) or a control group (n = 20). Both groups received sensory integration training twice weekly in 40-minute sessions over a 12-week period. Additionally, the intervention group received feeding behavior training with the same frequency and duration. Feeding behavior was assessed using the Behavioral Pediatric Feeding Assessment Scale (BPFAS); sensory processing was evaluated with the Dunn Sensory Profile (SP); and developmental domains were assessed using the Ankara Developmental Screening Inventory (ADSI). Children in the intervention group showed statistically significant improvements in BPFAS scores (p < 0.001; Cohen’s d = -1.725) and in the subdomains of the SP, including seeking, sensitivity, avoiding, sensation seeking, emotional reactivity, and oral sensitivity (p < 0.05; Cohen’s d ranging from − 0.904 to − 1.29), compared to the control group. No statistically significant differences were observed between the groups in ADSI scores (p > 0.05). The addition of feeding behavior training to sensory integration therapy significantly improved feeding behaviors and specific sensory processing domains in children with CP and CVI. These findings underscore the importance of combining behavioral and sensory-based approaches when addressing complex feeding challenges in this population. This study was registered on the clinicaltirals.gov site with the registration number ‘NCT06827743’ (Registration date: 12.02.2025).