The early years of a child's life are crucial for cognitive, social and emotional development. Therefore, it is important that we take every step necessary to ensure that children grow up in environments where their social, emotional and educational needs are met.

Unfortunately, for chronically ill children, such as those with severe GERD, the time their peers are spending learning these skills, they are spending too sick to anything or at doctors appointments, in hospitals, etc. It's not uncommon for these children to fall behind their peers. Children with severe GERD can also be at risk for speech and language delays, particularly if they are tube fed with no oral feeding for a long period of time.

That's not to say these children they are doomed and will never catch up, but it's important to be aware of the possibility and seek any appropriate therapies that may be required.

Further, children with developmental disabilities or neurological problems, are far more likely to have severe GERD.