Early Feeding Transitions and Down Syndrome: How to Support Caregivers with Dr. Kelsey Thompson, PhD

Guest: Kelsey Thompson, PhD, CCC-SLPEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/early-feedingHosted by: Michelle Dawson MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-SWelcome to an insightful conversation between Michelle Dawson and Dr. Kelsey Thompson, a renowned pediatric feeding therapist and researcher. In this episode, they delve into critical issues in pediatric feeding therapy, discuss essential strategies for supporting infants with Down syndrome and preterm infants, and explore the importance of early intervention and advocacy in speech-language pathology.📌 Episode Highlights:- The impact of recent CMS updates on provisional licensure for speech-language pathologists.- Exploring the unique needs and milestones in pediatric feeding therapy for infants with Down syndrome.- The vital role of early intervention and parent-infant relationships in feeding development.- Current gaps in research and the need for continued advocacy and support within pediatric feeding disorders.⏰ Timeline:00:00 – Introduction and recent CMS updates impacting speech-language pathologists03:00 – Importance of advocacy in speech pathology04:00 – Introduction to Dr. Kelsey Thompson08:00 – Dr. Thompson’s path into pediatric speech therapy11:00 – UNC’s Feeding Flock program overview15:00 – Special interest in working with Down syndrome populations19:00 – Developmental milestones and transitions in early feeding therapy25:00 – Defining "complementary foods" and its role in pediatric feeding30:00 – Findings from recent scoping review on Down syndrome and feeding35:00 – Key transitions and interventions in early childhood feeding40:00 – Clinical considerations and family support strategies45:00 – Addressing realistic goals and collaboration among caregivers50:00 – Importance of flexibility and adjusting therapy goals55:00 – Critical resources for supporting infants with Down syndrome01:00:00 – Addressing gaps in pediatrician training on feeding disorders01:05:00 – Essential organizations and resources for caregivers and clinicians01:10:00 – Wrapping up: Resources, future research directions, and contact information🔗 Useful Resources Mentioned:Feeding Matters: www.feedingmatters.orgNational Foundation of Swallowing Disorders: swallowingdisorderfoundation.comNational Down Syndrome Society: www.ndss.org📧 Contact Dr. Kelsey Thompson:Email: [email protected] the Guest: Kelsey Thompson, PhD, CCC-SLP, is a speech-language pathologist, research scientist, and mom of two little ones. Her research and clinical work center around supporting families through the introduction to solid foods, with the goal of preventing long-term pediatric feeding disorders and helping caregivers feel confident about feeding. Her research focuses on infants with Down syndrome and preterm infants and their families.Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uDdUnq3dwos