Feeding -- the process of eating and drinking -- is something all species do instinctively. It seems like a simple act but it is anything but that . . .

TalkTools Instructors, Vanessa Anderson-Smith, Monica Purdy, and Rehab Zaytoun, have teamed together to create a comprehensive, "user-friendly," highly applicable course for speech and feeding professionals. This course will take a deep dive into the "foundations" of the feeding process, integrating a client-centered, family-focused therapy approach to feeding roadblocks therapists see every day across all age groups. The course will employ the TalkTools® Kaleidoscope Feeding Model™ -- which draws upon an evolving, multi-disciplinary perspective to allow flexible, customizable therapy approaches for building feeding evaluations and program plans.  

Participants will experience hands-on, interactive learning with applicable techniques, case studies, and key strategies incorporated throughout the course. Instruction will include: what to look for when initially assessing a client, identifying relevant anatomy and structure (including a review of the self-study module–see below), the impacts of these systems on eating and drinking, as well as outlining feeding milestones and what to observe when these milestones are not reached. Participants will look across the pediatric feeding experience, assessing infant feeding and the critical transition from breast/bottle to the table -- and applying evidence-informed, therapy-based strategies and solutions for overcoming feeding roadblocks therapists often see.

NOTE: This course includes a 2-hour self-study module, focusing on systems and functions directly related to feeding, including breathing/airway and posture. FORMAT: pre-taped presentation with quiz.

Learners must complete the self-study module prior to participating in the workshop.

An extensive resource packet, including forms and checklists, is included.

The participant will be able to:

• Identify 3 structures/systems that impact feeding
• Outline a course of action for breast and bottle feeding
• Determine 4 potential feeding roadblocks
• Evaluate picky eating vs. problem eating
• Develop Client-Centered, Family-Focused Feeding Plan

Content Disclosure: This presentation will focus on treatment methods related to the use of TalkTools® resources. Other similar treatment approaches will receive limited or no coverage during this lecture.

TalkTools®️ is an AOTA Approved Provider of continuing education. Provider #: 4765. This live, virtual course qualifies for 12 contact hours or 1.2 CEUs in the Category of Occupational Therapy Process. The assignment of AOTA CEUs does not imply endorsement of specific course content, products, or clinical procedures by AOTA. Course Level: Intermediate.

Monica Purdy, MA, CCC-SLP, COM® Bio and Financial Disclosure

It is required to attend live to receive credit. Therefore, this offering will not be recorded.

*Practicum is included with your registration. Practicum and books (if applicable) will be available at the event location.

HOST: TBA

• $359
• Registration Only Includes 1.2 CEUs (ASHA/AOTA approved), practicum, digital workbook & certificate of completion.
• $399
• Registration + Textbook Includes: 25% off Nobody Ever Told Me (or my Mother) That! (book shipped with practicum)

Timed Agenda