Understanding pediatric dysphagia begins long before a baby takes their first feed. In this foundational course, you’ll explore the prenatal development of the structures required for swallowing and gain a deeper appreciation for how infant anatomy and physiology differ from adults. You’ll learn how the cardiovascular, respiratory, and neurologic systems influence feeding, as well as the complex coordination of sucking, swallowing, and breathing in healthy term infants. This essential foundation will help you better recognize what is typical, identify early signs of dysfunction, and strengthen your clinical reasoning when evaluating pediatric feeding and swallowing disorders.

Led by pediatric dysphagia researcher Dr. Katlyn McGrattan, this course combines developmental science with the latest evidence to help clinicians better understand infant feeding physiology. Drawing from her expertise in neonatal gastroenterology, pediatric otolaryngology, and innovative dysphagia assessment technologies, Dr. McGrattan provides practical insights that will enhance your ability to assess pediatric patients with greater confidence and accuracy. Whether you’re new to pediatric dysphagia or looking to strengthen your foundational knowledge, you’ll leave with a clearer understanding of normal development and the physiologic principles that guide evidence-based pediatric care.