Food for Thought: The Link Between Cognitive Function and Feeding

This course examines the interplay between executive functioning and pediatric feeding behaviors, specifically addressing the mechanisms behind picky eating and food selectivity. Participants will analyze how cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control, resilience, and negativity bias influence mealtime outcomes. By exploring the connection between cognitive immaturity and rigid food preferences, learners will understand why traditional sensory-motor approaches alone may fall short.

The curriculum introduces a structured framework for integrating cognitive-emotional self-regulation strategies with Oral Placement Therapy (OPT). Through evidence-informed analysis and clinical case studies, participants will develop a dual-lens approach to treatment—simultaneously addressing sensory-motor deficits and cognitive-regulatory barriers to improve feeding performance and reduce mealtime resistance.