Introductory Overview of Feeding and Nutrition for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Introductory Overview of Feeding and Nutrition for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
1 hour
The instructors
The purpose of this course is to provide an overview and entry-level understanding and exposure to current evidence-based research regarding feeding intervention and nutritional implications for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. This course will provide education on sensory systems and their relationship to feeding, nutrition-specific research, and feeding therapy intervention strategies.
Objectives:
- Be able to recognize the role of food/nutrition in feeding therapy for children with ASD
- Have an increased understanding of how each sensory system may impact feeding behaviors and preferences.
- Be able to identify intervention strategies to support increased acceptance of food and appropriate mealtime behaviors.
Audience:
Feeding therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, pediatric dieticians and nutritionists, parents/caregivers of children with ASD
The instructors
OTD, MOT, OTR/L, Certified Holistic Nutritionist, Pediatric Feeding Specialist
Samantha Heidenreich earned her Masters and Doctorate degrees in Occupational Therapy from the University of St Augustine for Health Sciences. Her Doctoral Capstone focused on implications for nutrition and feeding intervention for children on the Autism Spectrum. She has professional experience in various fields of pediatric practice including early intervention, private practice, inpatient, school based, and teletherapy services. She has been trained in multiple advanced courses for feeding and works to support professionals in the field by providing continuing education courses. Samantha became a Certified Holistic Nutritionist to help facilitate the feeding interventions she was providing to support better outcomes for clients overall health and behaviors. In addition to treating clients in traditional settings, Samantha owns an online platform and social media accounts which provide education and support for families and professionals focused on pediatric feeding and nutrition.
social media: @playfully_occupied website: www.playfullyoccupied.com