Pediatric Feeding Disorder and the School-Based Speech-Language Pathologist: An Evidence-Based Update for Clinical...

Area of Science:

• Speech-language pathology
• Pediatric medicine

Background:

• The history of pediatric feeding and swallowing services in public schools is reviewed.
• Key concepts learned since the 2008 forum are discussed.
• This forum introduces contributing authors and summarizes their articles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a forum on Pediatric Feeding Disorder and the School-Based Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP).
• To inform readers about the scope of evidence-based articles presented.
• To provide an update for clinical practice in school settings.

Main Methods:

• The prologue summarizes articles focusing on pediatric feeding and swallowing.
• It includes a historical overview of school-based feeding services.
• Contributing authors and their article summaries are presented.

Main Results:

• Articles offer evidence-based information relevant to school-based SLPs.
• Topics include anatomy, physiology, diagnosis, and therapeutic practices.
• The forum addresses family collaboration, legal parameters, and assessment frameworks.

Conclusions:

• The forum provides essential, evidence-based information for school-based SLPs managing pediatric feeding disorders.
• It emphasizes a comprehensive approach including diagnosis, treatment, legal considerations, and family involvement.
• This resource aims to enhance clinical practice in identifying and treating pediatric feeding and swallowing issues within school districts.