Exploring the Challenges to Supporting Children with Paediatric Feeding Disorders

Part 1: Introduction
Hello, I’m Julie Tan, a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) and postgraduate researcher pursuing a Master of Science (MSc) in Speech Pathology at Curtin University, Perth, Australia. My academic journey is guided by the expertise of Assoc. Professor Naomi Cocks and Professor Deborah Hersh, and my work is grounded in clinical practice with children experiencing paediatric feeding disorders (PFD).

I’ve always been passionate about the intersection of clinical care and research. Early in my career, I observed how feeding and swallowing difficulties impacted families, inspiring me to pursue advanced studies to support these children better. My published paper, “A Qualitative Study of the Parents/Carers’ Perspectives of Support on the Journey with Their Child Diagnosed with Feeding and/or Swallowing Disorders”, Tan, J., Cocks, N., & Claessen, M. (2021). Mothers’ perspectives of support for their child, diagnosed with feeding/swallowing disorders. Journal of Speech, Language and Hearing, 25(1), 17–28. https://doi.org/10.1080/2050571X.2021.1904734 and my most recent study, “ ’A Band-aid Service’, Speech-Language Pathologists’ Perspectives on the Challenges They Face to Support Children with PFD and Their Families,” (currently under review) are the results of this dedication.

Part 2: How Is My Expertise Beneficial to Pediatric Feeding Disorders?
My clinical and research background equips me with a comprehensive perspective on PFD. By combining hands-on experience with evidence-based approaches, I aim to empower families, caregivers, and SLPs to overcome the challenges inherent in managing feeding and swallowing disorders. Through collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and a focus on family-centred care, I work to ensure that therapy is both effective and meaningful to the child’s unique needs and context.

Part 3: My Favorite Part of the Work I Do
What I love most about my work is the opportunity to witness children and families thrive. Whether it’s a child learning to enjoy mealtimes or a parent feeling more confident in supporting their child, these milestones are deeply rewarding. I also cherish the relationships built through this work, as each family brings a unique story that fuels my commitment to making a difference.

Part 4: What’s Exciting About My Work and Research?
My current research focuses on giving voice to those often unheard: parents, carers, and SLPs navigating the complexities of PFD. Through qualitative studies, I aim to uncover the lived experiences of these stakeholders, shedding light on systemic barriers and identifying opportunities to enhance care delivery. It’s exciting to see how this work contributes to developing more inclusive, family-centered approaches that improve outcomes for children with PFD.

Part 5: What’s Next for Me?
Looking ahead, I aspire to advocate for systemic changes in service delivery and the training of SLPs and increase awareness of the financial and emotional toll that PFD takes on families. Ultimately, I hope to establish frameworks that ensure equitable, accessible care for all children and families affected by feeding and swallowing disorders.

Part 6: Connect with Me!
I’m always open to collaboration and discussions about PFD. If you have questions or would like to explore opportunities to work together, you can reach me via email at [julietan555@gmail.com]. Together, we can continue to improve the lives of children and families navigating PFD.

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about my work!