Janis Billiot, MA CCC-SLP

As speech-language pathologists, we occupy a unique and critical role on the pediatric dysphagia team. Whether working in the NICU, an outpatient clinic, a school, or a home health setting, the ability to accurately assess and effectively treat swallowing disorders in children can be the difference between a child who thrives and one who faces repeated hospitalizations. This post walks through the core assessment and treatment tools every pediatric SLP should consider having at the ready, and...

Whether you are a speech-language pathologist working across the lifespan, a parent watching your infant struggle at the breast or bottle, or a family member helping a loved one recover from a stroke, understanding dysphagia — difficulty swallowing — is the first step toward safer, more confident mealtimes. This article breaks down the essentials: how dysphagia differs in children versus adults, what warning signs to watch for, when to seek help, and what practical strategies can make a real...