Thickening in Pediatrics: When, Why and How

This presentation will include evidence-based information and current best practices for use of thickened liquids in the pediatric population. It will specifically address implementation of IDDSI standardization (The International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative 2016 @https://iddsi.org/framework/) at Lurie Children’s Hospital and how therapists can educate and support parents regarding implementation of recommendations to use this initiative in the home setting. The talk will include hands-on learning of the thickening and IDDSI testing process as well as a group question and answer session.

Presenter: Laura Henehan is a Speech-Language Pathologist and Certified Lactation Specialist. She received her Bachelor’s and Master’s in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Illinois State University before working in the school, hospital and Early Intervention settings. She is currently employed at Lurie Children’s Hospital where she works with infants and children with feeding and swallowing difficulties. She lives in Chicago with her husband and toddler.