How to Wean to Thin Liquids in Pediatric Oropharyngeal Dysphagia

presented by Kara Larson, M.S.,CCC-SLP

Identify the clinical, instrumental, and patient-specific factors that indicate readiness to begin weaning from thickened to thin liquids in pediatric patients with oropharyngeal dysphagia.
Describe an evidence-based, systematic approach to reducing liquid thickness while monitoring swallowing safety, hydration, nutrition, and clinical outcomes.
Apply practical strategies for caregiver education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and follow-up to support a safe and successful transition to thin liquids while recognizing when modifications to the weaning plan or repeat instrumental assessment are indicated.
Develop an individualized, stepwise weaning plan for a pediatric patient with oropharyngeal dysphagia using clinical case examples and evidence-based decision-making.

AGENDA:

0-5 minutes: Introduction

5-20 minutes: What is the Systematic Weaning Protocol and How Can I Incorporate It Into Clinical Use?

20-35 minutes: Let’s Write Out Weaning Plans & Case Studies

35-45 minutes: Troubleshooting Weaning Plans

45-50 minutes: The Multi-Disciplinary Approach to Weaning From Thickened Liquids

50-60 minutes: Q&A

Can I get ASHA CEUS for this Course?

To successfully complete this course, participants must submit a reflective statement (150-250 words in length) within 14 days of taking the course addressing the following: Identify one key concept, technique, or insight you learned during the course and describe how you plan to apply this learning in your clinical practice.

What is the Refund/Cancellation Policy?

Click here to view our policy: https://medslpcollective.com/cancellation-of-courses-and-events/

What can I do if I have a complaint?

Please contact us at info@medslpcollective.com

Who is this webinar appropriate for?

The target audience for this content is licensed speech-language pathologists. There are no prerequisite skills or knowledge needed beyond the basic speech-language pathology training and licensing.

What if I need special accommodations?

If you require accommodations to access these materials due to a disability, please email us at info@medslpcollective.com

Kara Larson

Kara Larson serves as the Co-Director of the Center for Communication Enhancement and the Director of the Feeding & Swallowing Program in the Division of Otolaryngology & Center for Communication Enhancement at Boston Children’s Hospital. She has over 28 years of clinical experience in pediatric dysphagia. Kara focuses her clinical work and research in Pediatric Aerodigestive Disorders. She is part-time faculty at Boston University. Kara is President Elect of the Aerodigestive Society. Kara serves as Topic Co-Chair for Pediatric Feeding and Swallowing for the 2026 ASHA Convention.

FINANCIAL DISCLOSURES: Medical SLP Collective, honorarium, Salaried Employee Boston Children’s Hospital, Adjunct Faculty, Boston University

NON-FINANCIAL DISCLOSURES: President Elect, Aerodigestive Society, Co-Chair Pediatric Feeding and Swallowing Convention Committee for ASHA 2026 Convention

Patrick Jones - Course author

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