Playgrounds with a Feeding Tube
As a parent or caregiver of young children, the question of “Can we go to the playground?” is almost inevitable throughout the week. With the warm weather, and the start of school, playgrounds are a common destination for kids to socialize while maintaining recommended exercise time. Every parent’s goal is to let their child enjoy safe, fun outdoor activities. If you are a parent or caregiver of a child who uses a feeding tube, you may be hesitant to load the car up and drive to the nearest park. You may also feel uncomfortable letting your child enjoy recess during school hours. Luckily, playing on playgrounds with a feeding tube comes with little to no restrictions.
GASTROSTOMY TUBES:
If your child has a Gastrostomy tube that is inserted into their abdomen, they will have a button and stoma site. This type of feeding tube allows the child to participate in almost every physical activity they would be able to participate in if they did not use a feeding tube, such as swimming or camping too.
To ensure safety while your child goes to recess or an afterschool playdate to the playground, make sure the G-button is properly closed and cleaned. You may even consider wrapping the tube site with an ace bandage or protective belt for extra protection.
After your child has finished playing on the playground with a feeding tube, ensure the stoma site is clean and free of any external substance that may cause infection. If so, your child can resume feeding as normal.
NASOGASTRIC TUBES:
If your child uses a nasogastric tube that is inserted through their nostril, you may have to be a little more cautious. Make sure you disconnect your child’s pump and extensions set before they go to play, and properly enclose the feeding tube.
Encouraging options such as swings, slides, or hopscotch will also keep your child away from activities that may lead to their tube getting caught on playground equipment.
After your child is done playing on the playground with a feeding tube, check their feeding tube to ensure it is clean and still properly placed. If so, your child can re-attach to their extension set and feeding pump as normal.
CONFIRM WITH YOUR DOCTOR
In both scenarios, be sure to ask your health care provider about any restrictions regarding physical activity. Ensure there is an adult or supervisor who knows your child’s situation who is present at the playground. This will help them keep an extra eye out so any issue can be addressed immediately.
TALK WITH YOUR CHILD
It is important to communicate with your child about their situation. This will help them to become aware of any limits they may or may not have. Also, let them know to notify a supervisor or teacher if they feel something may be wrong while playing on the playground with a feeding tube.