Description

The Fragile Infant Feeding Institute is a four and a half day intensive study of feeding and nutrition for infants with special needs. Held in a comfortable setting, the Institute encourages close interaction between the faculty and participants. The faculty represent both clinical and research perspectives, providing an evidence-based offering with a focus on practical application. Particular emphasis is placed on the neurodevelopmental aspects of infant feeding, supporting the infant-parent relationship, and the development of systems to support best practices.

This course expands the knowledge base of professionals supporting infants with feeding and nutrition challenges. The development of feeding skills and the impact of early nutrition and feeding experiences are discussed in the context of developmentally supportive and family-centered care. Based on concepts adapted from the Synactive theory, the Newborn Individualized Developmental Care & Assessment Program (NIDCAP), and the Family Infant Relationship Support Training (FIRST) program, the Institute provides a sound foundation for observation and assessment of developing feeding skills. Supportive interventions for infants while in the hospital, as well as during the transition to home are addressed.

The Institute places a special emphasis on feeding and nutritional issues through the transition to supplementary (baby) foods. The nutritional needs of premature infants and those with special medical needs, as well as the interaction between feeding skills and nutritional needs are discussed. Presenters represent the disciplines of nursing, nutrition, therapy, parenting, and psychology. Each day successively builds on the knowledge and information from the previous day. An interactive process with the faculty results in the participant applying the information during presentations during the four and a half day Institute.