The DIR® Approach to Pediatric Feeding

Eating is a highly complex process, with great emotional
significance for the child, parent(s) and caregivers. This course
will illustrate how DIR® (Developmental, Individual differences & Relationships) principles are used within feeding intervention for infants and children (6 months-12 yrs.), with a wide range of feeding challenges. Through the use of case examples, we will describe the importance of collaboration with families, as well as how to create individualized treatment plans. This coordinated effort has the goal of supporting the child to feel safe and self-motivated in the eating experience as it unfolds within the culture of the family.
Using the DIR® approach, we support the child in all their
developmental capacities in the feeding experience. The
importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, including
nutrition, medicine, occupational therapy, speech therapy and
mental health, will be illustrated. Participants will gain a better
understanding of relationship-based intervention to guide their
practice in the home, clinic and school-based setting. video case studies will be used to illustrate practical solutions to complex feeding disorders.