A model preschool for patients with phenylketonuria
Heffernan, J.F.; Trahms, C.M.
Journal of the American Dietetic Association 79(3): 306-308
1981
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-8223 PMID: 7264118 Document Number: 168917
Strict adherence to a low phenylalanine diet allows children with phenylketonuria (PKU) to develop normally, both physically and mentally; a pilot education program was developed to help the preschool child with PKU become involved with the management of the diet. A series of sequential learning experiences designed to teach the importance of the PKU diet, including the allowable foods, were tested on 4 boys, aged 2 1/2 to 5. Achievement was measured by their ability, after 18 sessions, to identify foods, to discriminate between "yes" and "no" foods, to select appropriate portion sizes, and to accept a greater variety of foods allowed by the PKU diet. While the sample was small, the response and learning achievement of the children were significant enough to warrant further exploration of this approach to diet management. (cj)