First Bite

Guest: Emma Justice, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, NTMTCEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/pfd-problem-solvingTune in as we welcome one of our favorite humans, Emily Justice, a dedicated speech language pathologist with a wealth of experience working in the NICU and public schools in Boston. Join us for an engaging discussion about her path into speech therapy, her passion for supporting minority recruitment in the field, and her advocacy for accessible feeding therapy. We delve into important topics such as the necessity of instrumental swallow studies, the power of family and caregiver involvement in therapy, and the importance of interprofessional collaboration. This episode is packed with practical insights for therapists, caregivers, and anyone invested in improving pediatric feeding practices.About the Guest: Emma Justice, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, NTMTC, works full-time for Boston Public Schools and is the owner of Justice for Infant Feeding Therapy and Lactation. She specializes in pediatric feeding and swallowing, with a focus on medical complexities and culturally diverse populations. Emma is certified in lactation counseling as well as neonatal touch and massage. She received her master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Northeastern University and completed her clinical fellowship at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. Emma has experience across several settings, including pediatric acute care, encompassing a Level III NICU, PICU, Oncology, Cleft and Craniofacial team, Aerodigestive team, and the well-baby Mother-Infant Unit. Additionally, Emma has experience in pediatric outpatient rehab, home health, and public school settings. She is a guest lecturer and the primary pediatric consultant for the Swallowing Wellness Center, where she teaches a course on pediatric swallow studies. Emma co-created BABY S.T.E.P. with Dr. Ianessa Humbert, an infant and pediatric adaptation of Humbert’s S.T.E.P. (Swallowing Training Educational Portal), designed to provide accessible, affordable, and evidence-based swallowing education. She currently serves on ASHA’s topic committee for Pediatric Feeding Disorders and has presented nationally on topics related to pediatric dysphagia and cultural disparities.

Guest: Ivonne Maldonado De la Rosa, PhD., MLS, CCC-SLPEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/health-and-pfdSocial Determinants of Health (SDOH) directly impact access to evaluation and intervention for infants, toddlers, and children with pediatric feeding disorder. But, how comfortable are you in identifying them? Do you have strategies for overcoming the barriers to care that SDOH create? What are the roles/impact of cultural beliefs and language(s) and their impact on SDOH and PFD? To answer these profound questions, as well as countless others, "First Bite" is honored to host the brilliant Ivonne Maldonado De la Rosa, Ph.D., MLS, CCC-SLP, for an hour to enlighten us on potential solutions and strategies for overcoming known and unknown barriers related to SDOH and PFD.About the Guest:Dr. Ivonne Maldonado-De la Rosa is a bilingual speech-language pathologist, researcher, and assistant professor at A.T. Still University in Arizona. She holds a Master of Legal Studies from Arizona State University’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, which complements her research and advocacy for equity in healthcare access. Her clinical and academic work focuses on pediatric feeding disorders, swallowing, bilingualism, and the impact of social determinants of health on patient outcomes.

Guests: Jennifer Eggert and Dawn Merth-JohnsonEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/lessons-from-wisconsonDo you dream about working with pediatric feeding disorders in the public schools, but aren't sure where to begin? Or, have you recently been asked to do so and are truly hesitant to start? Well, if you answered "Yes" to either one of those scenarios, then don't fret, because "First Bite" has you covered, thanks to the "forward-thinking" of leaders in Wisconsin. So, be inspired by your SLP colleagues Jennifer Eggert and Dawn Merth-Johnson, as they share the dynamic interprofessional practice team they built at the Wisconsin state level, the systematic steps they took during the 2024-2025 school year to implement the initial evaluation and treatment of pediatric feeding disorder protocols, and how they plan to engage in implementation science to tweak and grow for the 2025 -2026 school year. By the end of this hour, you will have functional steps to start in your district/state, too!Guests: Jennifer Eggert, MS, CCC-SLP, C/NDT, has dedicated her entire career to providing evaluation and treatment for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children with a range of congenital and acquired diagnoses. Jennifer's focus has consistently been in the area of oral-motor and feeding disorders. She has served for 20 years as an instructor in the University of Wisconsin system and at Marquette University, teaching a variety of undergraduate and graduate-level courses, in addition to providing both on- and off-campus student supervision. Jennifer is the outgoing president of the Wisconsin Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Association (WSHA).Dawn Merth-Johnson, MA, CCC-SLP, is an Education Consultant for the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, specializing in speech-language services and assistive technology. She brings 29 years of clinical and supervisory experience across various settings, including schools, long-term rehabilitation facilities, state agencies, and university programs. Dawn presents at both state and national conferences on topics related to leadership, advocacy, and clinical practice. She serves as Wisconsin’s ASHA Co-State Education Advocacy Leader (Co-SEAL) and is the ASHA SEAL Champion for the Midwest region.

Content warning for this episode: We discuss topics such as gun violence in schools and the recent event at Annunciation Church and Marjory Stoneman Douglass High School. 0.1 ASHA-CEUs will be available for this episode on September 16 at speechtherapypd.comIn this episode Erin and Rachel Archambault (@PTSDSLP) have a candid discussion regarding the tragedy in Minnesota and the impact of gun violence in regard to trauma, specifically in schools. Rachel authentically discusses the importance of the language we use and how we can support people who have experienced similar traumas to not continue to re-traumatize. This discussion addresses ways to continue to support those communities that have been affected, even years after tragedy and policies that are important to keep those involved safe. They address how to best support children and families who are asking questions and feel less safe at school as well. As stated before, this conversation can be hard to have and listen to so please listen if and when you feel you are ready and regulated. We acknowledge that the world and these topics can feel incredibly heavy and there is no right way to gain information, grieve, or process. This conversation is nuanced and will continue to be important to have and we hope you can take something from this.

This special episode is part one of host Erin Forward's course titled "Attachment and Infant Feeding: an SLPs Role in Mental Health" through the end of September this course is available for free for listeners of First Bite when you use the code "FBSpecial" at checkout! Earn .2 ASHA CEUs for free with code - FBSpecial: speechtherapypd.com/attachmentOften, SLPs do not fully understand their role in a patient’s mental health regarding feeding. We are well aware that counseling is in our scope of practice, but even in the direct therapy we provide, we play a significant role in the mental health of a patient and their caregivers. Both communication and feeding are integral parts of the development of attachment within a caregiver-child dyad, and we have a direct role in those activities. Thus, it is our job to gain greater insight into attachment and infant feeding, specifically to understand how we can support mental health outcomes for both caregiver and child. This course will dive into the deep connections of attachment, feeding, and mental health and how we can cater our therapeutic style and sense of self to support a more healthy bond.

This week on First Bite, Michelle and Erin revisit one of their most-requested topics: real-world feeding case studies.Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/not-just-pickyIn this episode, they walk through three complex cases involving children with layered challenges, including trauma histories, ARFID, and rare medical diagnoses. Each story highlights the messy, nonlinear nature of feeding therapy and the importance of flexible, family-centered care.You’ll hear how clinical reasoning, caregiver collaboration, and a bit of trial and error helped guide each child’s progress. But the focus isn’t just on the kids. Michelle and Erin also explore how the entire family system shapes therapy outcomes and mealtime trust.If you love practical insights and honest conversations about what really happens in feeding therapy, this episode is for you.Watch First Bite on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ucH8ert84dcMentioned in this episode:Beyond Words with Garrett OyamaSubscribe to Beyond Words with Garrett Oyama, a new podcast from Speech Therapy PD

Full conversation between Michelle Dawson MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S and Erin Forward MSP, CCC-SLP, CLC,Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/cours...Do you feel like AAC is outside your comfort zone as an SLP or OT? You’re not alone, and we’re here to help.Join Erin and Michelle for a practical and encouraging conversation about why it’s essential for every clinician to develop a foundational understanding of AAC, especially when serving children and families in community settings.With AAC evaluations often delayed for months at larger organizations, clinicians need tools and confidence to support communication in the meantime. Erin and Michelle will walk you through the key components of an AAC evaluation, the importance of building strong relationships with your clients, and how to get started, even if you're not an AAC specialist.They’ll also share valuable resources to guide your next steps and help you support families when AAC services feel out of reach. You may not have all the answers, but we’ll help you know where to start and how to keep learning.Watch First Bite on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ykkZ__rpQNY?si=7Nt0uOk736FEz7dwMentioned in this episode:Beyond Words with Garrett OyamaSubscribe to Beyond Words with Garrett Oyama, a new podcast from Speech Therapy PD

Guest: Karen McWaters MOT, OTR/LEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/the-importance-of-motor-and-language-learning-for-effective-Originally Aired: September 2023As SLPs, we can often look at speech and language development in isolation, as our formal assessments encourage us to do; however, it is imperative that we learn from our occupational and physical therapy colleagues regarding motor learning principles and how they parallel those of language development. When we get out of our box, we can further understand the children we work with and their capacities. Erin and Karen will discuss their journey of collaborating within this context and how they learned from each other to help the children they worked with reach further potential.About the guest: Karen is an Occupational Therapist living and working in Greenville, South Carolina. She received her BS in Public Health from Clemson University and her Masters of Occupational Therapy degree from Georgia State University in Atlanta. Her professional interests include sensory processing and praxis, neurodevelopment, DIR/Floortime, functional vision, and (most recently) trauma informed care. Karen loves that this job enables partnerships with families to meet each child’s unique needs and harnesses the power of relationships to impact each kid’s life using their motivations and interests.Mentioned in this episode:Beyond Words with Garrett OyamaSubscribe to Beyond Words with Garrett Oyama, a new podcast from Speech Therapy PD

Guest: Farwa Husain, MS CCC-SLPEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/glp-for-the-pediatric-slpOriginally Aired: March 2024In this episode, Michelle is joined by Farwa Husain, MS CCC-SLP, bilingual speech-language pathologist and private practice owner of One-on-One Speech Therapy in New Jersey. Farwa, recognized as an ASHA Innovator in 2023, spends this hour sharing her passion for growing culturally and linguistically appropriate therapy for gestalt language processors (GLP) and their caregivers! So, if you want to learn more about GLP, how it compares to analytic language processors (ALP), and how to support GLP in their natural environments, then tune in and let Farwa share her brilliance and compassion!About the guest: Farwa Husain is an experienced bilingual speech-language pathologist and private practice owner of One-on-One Speech Therapy in New Jersey. Farwa has presented at ASHA, New Jersey Speech and Hearing Association, and Morris County Speech and Hearing Association on gestalt language processing. Farwa was recognized at the 2023 ASHA convention as an “Innovator” in speech-language pathology. She is nominated for the Clinician of the Year-SLP award at the upcoming National Black Association for Speech-Language and Hearing 2024 National Convention. Families have also recognized her in the NJ Family magazine “Top Docs” edition. Farwa is currently serving as President of Morris County Speech and Hearing Association, a non-profit organization that provides exceptional continuing education to SLPs and audiologists in New Jersey. She is devoted to culturally and linguistically appropriate therapy that celebrates a family’s unique lifestyle and mentors SLPs in supporting gestalt language processors around the world.Mentioned in this episode:Beyond Words with Garrett OyamaSubscribe to Beyond Words with Garrett Oyama, a new podcast from Speech Therapy PD

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEUs for this episode: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/valuing-pediatric-vfssIn this episode, Michelle interviews Anais Villaluna, SLPD, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, CLC, a trilingual speech-language pathologist, to discuss best practices and critical considerations for pediatric Video Fluoroscopic Swallow Studies (VFSS). Anais, who has just completed her SLPD and is already embarking on her PhD journey, shares insights from recent research, including the importance of radiographic settings, hidden technological considerations that can impact the outcome, the value of interdisciplinary collaboration, and how to support the little ones and their caregivers through the VFSS process. If you’re not familiar with conducting VFSS, or even if you’re a seasoned veteran, this episode will have nuggets of EBP for everyone!Mentioned in this episode:Beyond Words with Garrett OyamaSubscribe to Beyond Words with Garrett Oyama, a new podcast from Speech Therapy PD

Guest: Colleen Ashford MS, CCC-SLPEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/advocacy-and-iepsIn this episode, Erin and Colleen discuss the depth of advocacy surrounding IEPs, EI, and the impact of recent policy changes. This vulnerable discussion touches on what it means to advocate for our families in the school setting and beyond. Colleen discusses the effects of variety in policy and laws state by state, and the importance of seeking resources and support to help you support your families. They also discuss how SLPs can tailor their services in private practice and resources to support you in this process. If you are ready to explore and expand your value and advocacy as an SLP, this episode is for you.Here is the link of an organization Colleen would recommend donating to: https://www.ilrc.org/donate-nowThey are the same one that created these Family Preparedness Plan Packets that can be given to families:https://www.ilrc.org/resources/step-step-family-preparedness-planColleen's Courses (Colleen is an affiliate)The Collaborative IEP with Ashley Barlow (two complimentary courses):https://thecollaborativeiep.spiffy.co/a/0KLCN2r0pE/4345https://thecollaborativeiep.spiffy.co/a/lkgsG1az5P/4345YourSLPDaj's SIDE BIZ SLP Course (Colleen is an affiliate) -https://ashford--cotreatcorner.thrivecart.com/sidebizslp/If people want to hear The Unfiltered IEPs Podcast they can subscribe here to find out when new episodes are released!https://theadvocateslp.myflodesk.com/dqt0sp358uWatch First Bite on YouTube: https://youtu.be/7MAivUFBhc4?si=F6rhc3118SrSsOwNMentioned in this episode:Beyond Words with Garrett OyamaSubscribe to Beyond Words with Garrett Oyama, a new podcast from Speech Therapy PD

Expert Panel: Amy Hobek, PhD, CCC-SLP, Fé González Murray, EdD, CCC-SLP, Vishnu KK Nair, Archie Soelaeman, Betty Yu and Reem KhamisTake ACTION HERE: Changes to 2020 certification standards feedback. Survey. (n.d.). https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2020_Cert_ChangesThis episode will be available for 0.1 ASHA CEU on July 4, enroll here: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/ashas-proposed-changesCorrection Note from Dr. Betty: “During the recording I referred to the executive order targeting associations with assets of $500 million or more. I thought ASHA met that criteria but actually ASHA’s net assets are around $174 million.”In this episode, Michelle and Erin host an all start line up of colleagues from across the globe to discuss ASHA’s Proposed Changes to the “2020 Certification Standards” and the long-term ramifications that these changes could have for our profession. This conversation is timely in that there are only a matter of days, roughly 3 weeks or less, for audiologists and speech-language pathologists (including students) to write in and advocate to ASHA on whether the proposed changes to the 2020 Certification Standards should be accepted… changes that remove key words and language that were hard fought to obtain. Be informed that this conversation does address political rationale behind the changes and offer a plethora of resources for individuals to grow their knowledge regarding the long-term ramifications of these proposed changes… but it ends with resources on how to make your voice heard! So, come join the ladies of “First Bite” and ADVOCATE!About the Panel: Amy Hobek, PhD, CCC-SLP is an Associate Professor of Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Cincinnati. Her teaching and scholarship focus on equity and inclusion, with an emphasis on valuing and legitimizing cultural and linguistic variations in these areas within individuals, families, and communities. She is also a licensed speech language pathologist providing clinic supervision of graduate students in a culturally and linguistically diverse preschool setting on UC’s campus. She is a co-chair of the Cultural Humility Task Force of the National Black Association of Speech Language and Hearing. She is a topic co-chair of Equity, Inclusion, and Cultural-Linguistic Diversity for the ASHA 2025 Convention. Professor Reem Khamis (also known as Reem Khamis-Dakwar) is Professor Emerita at Adelphi University and Chair of the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Long Island University (LIU) Brooklyn. Her expertise centers on language development, processing, and clinical services within the sociolinguistic context of diglossia and diverse populations. Dr. Khamis is co-founder of the Journal of the Critical Study of Communication and Disability (JCSCD) and a co-founding member of the Speech, Language, and Hearing Scientists Equity Action Collective. She currently serves as Language Section Editor for the Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research (JSLHR). She received the Excellence in Diversity Award in 2020 from the Council of Academic Programs in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CAPCSD). Fé González Murray, EdD, CCC-SLP is an Associate Clinical Professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Northern Arizona University. Prior to joining the NAU faculty, she worked for 25 years as an English/Spanish bilingual speech-language pathologist in various settings, most notably in public schools serving Indigenous American, migrant, and immigrant populations. In addition to teaching and supervising clinical rotations, she facilitates workshops nationally and internationally on topics related to responsive practice...

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: kelsey_thompson@med.unc.eduAbout 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=uDdUnq3dwosMentioned in this episode:Beyond Words with Garrett OyamaSubscribe to Beyond Words with Garrett Oyama, a new podcast from Speech Therapy PD

***Trauma-Informed Moment: This episode could trigger NICU warriors and survivors emotionally. As always, we choose joy and healing; however, we wanted to inform you in advance.***Full conversation with Casey Lewis, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, CNT, CLC, NTMTC for "Sacred Space: Supporting Caregivers and SLPs in the NICU" an episode of the First Bite podcast.Hosted by: Michelle Dawson MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-SEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/sacred-spaceIn this episode, Michelle is joined by Casey Lewis, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, CNT, CLC, NTMTC, a fiercely compassionate advocate for both caregivers in the NICU and NICU SLPs, as her life journey has had her walk in both footsteps. During this hour, Casey shares raw memories of both life experiences to help grow our colleagues' understanding of barriers that caregivers and clinicians encounter in this setting, all to see our smallest patients thrive. If you have ever wanted to work in the NICU or learn how to support a colleague or family member better while they brave their personal NICU journey, this is the hour for you.About the Guest(s): Casey Lewis, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, CNT, CLC, NTMTC, is a Speech-Language Pathologist based in Dallas, Texas. She owns and operates TexScope, a mobile endoscopy company serving numerous Texas healthcare organizations. Casey's specialties include dysphagia across the lifespan as well as neonatal care. Casey is currently serving as an expert witness in a legal case, representing expertise in neonatal dysphagia. Most recently, Casey became a NICU Mom herself in 2023 after experiencing a placental abruption. Casey's experience of transitioning from clinician to caregiver in a space where she has built her career has strengthened her heart for advocacy, specifically in the fragile environment of the NICU.Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vqs46JCmFPgMentioned in this episode:Beyond Words with Garrett OyamaSubscribe to Beyond Words with Garrett Oyama, a new podcast from Speech Therapy PD

Guests: Lindsay Meyer Turner, PhD, CCC-SLP, CNT, IBCLC, RLC, NTMTC, Leena Sayed, MS, Inéz Esparza, MS, L-SLP, CCC-SLP, Megan Richmond, DHA, MS CCC-SLP, and Meredith McLain, MCD CCC-SLPHosted by: Michelle Dawson MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-SThis episode is worth 0.1 ASHA CEU and meets ASHA DEI certification requirement, enroll here: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/pfd-and-deiaIn this episode, Michelle is joined by an all-star line-up of PFD advocates from across the nation: Lindsay Meyer Turner, PhD, CCC-SLP, CNT, IBCLC, RLC, NTMTC, Leena Sayed, MS, Inéz Esparza, MS, L-SLP, CCC-SLP, Megan Richmond, DHA, MS CCC-SLP, and Meredith McLain, MCD CCC-SLP to address DEIA within the framework of pediatric feeding disorder! United together, these women create a safe space to hold a crucial and intimate conversation about the unique challenges that our colleagues, patients, and caregivers are encountering on a daily basis. Yes, there are tears, yes there is laughter, and yes there are numerous evidence-based resources to support listeners in their walk as they stand up for improved access to care, fight racism, sexism, and ableism, and most importantly serve one another with humility, compassion, and an abundance of grace all in time to close out Pediatric Feeding Disorder and ARFID Awareness Month with unparalleled joy!Mentioned in this episode:Beyond Words with Garrett OyamaSubscribe to Beyond Words with Garrett Oyama, a new podcast from Speech Therapy PD

Michelle and Erin get together to talk about their free PFD in Schools seminar that took place on last Sunday (5/18). They also preview the new season starting next week on May 27, and the process of creating a new cover for the first time in 7 years! Stay tuned next week for an all new episode titled "PFD and DEIA: Why It Matters to Us and Those We Serve" featuring a panel of 6 PFD experts from around the US. Mentioned in this episode:Beyond Words with Garrett OyamaSubscribe to Beyond Words with Garrett Oyama, a new podcast from Speech Therapy PD

Free PFD in Schools Seminar (.6 ASHA CEU): www.speechtherapypd.com/pfdThis conversation originally aired September 26, 2018 - an all new season of First Bite will return on May 27, 2025. Earn .1 ASHA CEU for this episode: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Banishing-Basic-Feeding-Myths-in-the-World-of-Pediatrics-48Hosts: Michelle Dawson MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S and Erin Forward MSP, CCC-SLP, CLCIn this episode, Michelle and Erin bust some of our pre-conceived myths regarding treatment of feeding disorders in the pediatric world. Defining the etiology of the dysphagia, the confusion of utilization of EBP strategies with adults and how EBP can often become misplaced when treating pediatrics is discussed, as well as some of our favorite resources to develop our EBP for pediatrics is discussed.Mentioned in this episode:Beyond Words with Garrett OyamaSubscribe to Beyond Words with Garrett Oyama, a new podcast from Speech Therapy PD

Free PFD in Schools Seminar (.6 ASHA CEU): www.speechtherapypd.com/pfdThis interview with Dr. Kay Toomey originally aired January 19, 2019, an all new season of First Bite will return on May 27, 2025. Earn .1 ASHA CEU for this episode: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Never-Fear-Dr-Kay-Toomey-and-SOS-Feeding-are-Here-243In this engaging episode of the 'First Bite' podcast, host Michelle Dawson is joined by Dr. Kay Toomey, a leading psychologist and founder of the SOS Approach to Feeding, dives deep into the nuances of pediatric feeding therapy. Dr. Toomey explores the roots and principles of the SOS Approach, highlighting the importance of a bottom-up methodology, play, and systematic desensitization in aiding children with feeding disorders. The conversation also touches on the difference between picky eaters and problem feeders, the interdisciplinary nature of effective feeding therapy, and the challenges faced by families with medically fragile children. Dr. Toomey provides insights on how to balance different therapeutic approaches and the significance of postural stability in feeding. Throughout, the discussion emphasizes compassion, patience, and the need for a holistic, family-inclusive approach to pediatric feeding therapy.00:00 Morning Chaos and Exciting Announcements00:21 Celebrating Milestones and Upcoming Event02:34 Introduction to Today's Episode03:19 Re-releasing a Special Episode04:02 Welcome to First Bite Podcast04:28 Diving into the SOS Approach to Feeding06:04 The Journey of Dr. K Tomi13:32 Understanding Picky Eaters vs. Problem Feeders41:38 Importance of Proper Postural Stability for Children43:18 Teaching Children to Eat Through Play44:25 SOS Approach to Feeding Program45:55 Classical vs. Operant Conditioning in Feeding46:45 Addressing Feeding Difficulties in Children47:50 Bottom-Up Approach to Teaching Eating Skills49:41 Systematic Desensitization vs. Top-Down Approach51:14 Managing Vomiting During Feeding Sessions53:31 Creating a Positive Feeding Environment56:49 Becoming an SOS Certified Provider01:02:27 Navigating Different Feeding Philosophies01:12:01 Supporting Medically Fragile Children in Feeding01:17:20 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsMentioned in this episode:Beyond Words with Garrett OyamaSubscribe to Beyond Words with Garrett Oyama, a new podcast from Speech Therapy PD

Guest: Patrick "Pat" Reeves MD, FAAP, DABOM, MAJ, MC, USAEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=BowelsBellyBrain-InteractionIn this insightful podcast episode, join host Michelle as she engages in a detailed conversation with Dr. Patrick Reeves, a pediatric gastroenterologist working with the military. They discuss a range of significant topics including the management and transition of feeding tubes, the challenges of cyclic vomiting syndrome, and functional constipation in children. Dr. Reeves also elaborates on his development of clinical action plans to improve coordination of care for patients with complex nutritional needs. Gain valuable insights into pediatric gastroenterology, practical tips for advocating for appropriate care, and the importance of teamwork among healthcare providers.Episode Timeline:00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:15 Dr. Reeves' Professional Journey03:52 Developing Clinical Tools During the Pandemic05:54 The Role of Dr. Reeves' Wife in Tool Development07:44 Clinical Action Plans Overview09:46 Understanding Constipation in Pediatric Patients25:03 Challenges with Nissen Fundoplication31:11 Feeding Tubes: A Necessary Tool35:16 Introduction to Claire Riley's Research35:38 Complications of NG and J Tubes37:18 The Aggressive Bridle Device40:01 Case Study: Managing G-Tube Transitions53:23 Understanding Functional GI Disorders56:00 Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome Explained01:02:07 Advocating for Pediatric GI Care01:09:46 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsAbout the Guest: Patrick “Pat” Reeves, MD, FAAP, DABOM, MAJ, MC, USA, is a triple-board-certified physician in the areas of General Pediatrician, Obesity Medicine Specialist, and Pediatric Gastroenterologist Hepatologist, with advanced research skills focusing on enhancing patient education and clinical outcomes. He serves as an associate professor of pediatrics and associate professor of military medicine through the Uniformed Services University, University of Texas, and Texas A&M. His specific research focuses are first describing the negative impacts of consumer product injuries- like button batteries, high powered magnets [Buckyballs] and water beads [Orbeez]- on child health, and secondly, the development of point-of-care tools to be used at home by families managing children with medical complexity. He has nearly 40 peer-reviewed, published articles.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/g5iqlS5GEGkMentioned in this episode:Beyond Words with Garrett OyamaSubscribe to Beyond Words with Garrett Oyama, a new podcast from Speech Therapy PD

Guest: Joleen Fernald, PhD, CCC-SLP, BCS-CLEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=DIR-and-Selective-MutismIn this episode, host Erin welcomes Jolene Fernald, an expert in selective mutism and DIR floor time, to discuss the complexities of selective mutism, neurodiversity, and how to support children who struggle with communication in anxiety-provoking situations. Jolene shares personal experiences, diagnostic criteria, and effective strategies based on a holistic DIR approach. Viewers will learn about the role of sensory processing, how to build a supportive classroom environment, and the importance of understanding the 'why' behind behaviors. This episode also covers the overlap between selective mutism and autism, providing insights into the situational challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals. Jolene introduces useful resources, including a new card deck to guide therapists and educators. This enriching conversation aims to equip you with knowledge and tools to better support children with selective mutism.Episode Timeline:00:00 Introduction and Excitement for the Episode00:30 Upcoming Events and Conferences01:09 Guest Introduction: Jolene Fernald03:29 Jolene's Journey and Expertise in Selective Mutism09:49 Understanding Selective Mutism and DIR Approach13:29 Diagnosing and Addressing Selective Mutism20:55 Building Communication Capacities in Children28:15 The Role of Sensory Activities and AAC31:24 Understanding Communication Challenges in Children32:28 Addressing Classroom Anxiety and AAC Systems35:12 Supporting Teachers and Creating Safe Environments38:23 Effective Classroom Strategies for Anxious Students47:09 Selective Mutism and Autism: Overlapping Conditions57:32 Resources and Tools for Supporting Children with SM01:01:48 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsAbout the Guest: Joleen R. Fernald, PhD, CCC-SLP was awarded Board Specialty Recognition in Child Language from the American Speech-Language Hearing Association. Dr. Fernald follows Greenspan and Wieder’s model, DIRFloortime® , when working with children and families.She has a special interest in the social-emotional development of young children and its impact on their speech and language skills. As a speech-language pathologist, Dr. Fernald works with children who have a variety of communication disorders. She specializes in the assessment and treatment of Selective Mutism and is the developer of the DIR-SM model.Mentioned in this episode:Beyond Words with Garrett OyamaSubscribe to Beyond Words with Garrett Oyama, a new podcast from Speech Therapy PD