Consensus on level descriptors for a functional children's eating and drinking activity scale

Aim To agree wording of level descriptors for a measure of functional outcome of children's eating and drinking. Method An online, modified Delphi method was used to gather feedback on current level descriptor wording and generate rewording suggestions. Thirty speech and language therapists, working in a variety of settings and geographical locations, were invited to be part of the Delphi expert panel. Content analysis was used to evaluate participants' comments and develop consensus level descriptors. Consensus for acceptable wording was set at 80% agreement. Face validity was assessed using 5‐point Likert scales. Results Nineteen expert speech and language therapists (median experience 18 years) completed round one; 15 out of 19 completed round two. Level descriptor rating reached 80% agreement in two rounds. Additionally, 93% of participants agreed the scale would accurately capture change in their setting, with 87% likely to use the scale in practice. Interpretation This study has produced agreed wording for a functional measure of eating and drinking activity suitable for use with paediatrics feeding disorders, regardless of disease aetiology, presentation, age, or setting. Potential for widespread use is supported. Further evaluation of the tool's reliability and validity is required. This study used a Delphi methodology with an expert panel of speech and language therapists to agree wording for a measure of functional outcome for children's eating and drinking difficulties. Eighty percent consensus was achieved in two rounds and participants determined the tool has good face validity. The resulting 6‐point measure, named the Children's Eating and Drinking Activity Scale, is presented. This original article is commented on by Nogueira on pages 1136–1137 of this issue.