Infant Development and Breastfeeding: The Body–Brain Connection Lecture Pack
Breastfeeding shapes infant development in profound ways that go far beyond just being a source of nutrition. Learn more about the powerful relationship that exists between the breastfeeding dyad in this 6-hour special focus package that explores the latest research. It weaves together neurodevelopment, sensory integration, physiology, attachment, and infant mental health to illuminate the whole-body, whole-brain impact of breastfeeding.
*To purchase this lecture pack along with the main conference, you may add it when registering for the conference, or anytime afterwards (during the conference period).
*Only those registering for the main conference, or have registered for the main conference will have the ability to purchase this lecture pack. You will have the opportunity to purchase this add-on at the time of conference registration, or anytime afterwards (during the time of the conference).
- Quick View:
- Educational Credits
- Pricing
- Details
- REGISTER
Speakers & Presentations
-
IBCLCBiography Topic Info
Adina Kopinsky, IBCLC, is an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant with over a decade of experience supporting mothers and babies. She is the co-creator of Body-Led Breastfeeding, a methodology that sees infant body language patterns as the key to breastfeeding success. Adina specializes in helping babies with persistent oral function challenges and those who struggle with bottle feeding.
She serves as an assistant editor at the Journal of Human Lactation, where she produces and co-hosts their monthly literature review podcast. She is also founding Vice-President of the Alliance of Jewish Lactation Professionals (AJLP).Topic: Body-Led Breastfeeding: A Physiokinetics Perspective on the Infant Body While Feeding - [View Abstract]
Abstract:View Full Presentation InformationBody-Led Breastfeeding explores breastfeeding through the lens of physiokinetics, emphasizing how an infant’s full-body motor patterns reflect the functional quality of their suck. Rather than focusing solely on oral structures or latch technique, this approach considers how the baby’s body responds to the demands of feeding. Attendees will learn how to observe signs such as spinal positioning, elevated shoulders, or a persistent occipital crease as clues to underlying compensatory feeding strategies.
These postural patterns, often overlooked, reveal when a baby is working inefficiently or excessively hard to maintain suction and flow. Understanding the body’s role in feeding allows clinicians to decode the physical "story" babies tell with their posture. The Body-Led Breastfeeding framework equips clinicians with body-based strategies to improve feeding outcomes where oral approaches alone fall short. -
BSc, RN, IBCLCBiography Topic Info
Anna Le Grange is an IBCLC, Positive Psychologist, Registered Paediatric Nurse, Mindfulness teacher and Author. She has worked with new families for 25 years in a variety of clinical and community settings. Anna brings her passion for psychology, neuroscience and mindfulness into her lactation support work and teaches parents and professionals how they incorporate emotional well-being tools into their own lactation practice.
Mother to 3 children, Anna breastfed her 3rd child following breast reduction surgery and experienced first-hand, the emotional challenges that so often relate to infant feeding complexities. She used her personal experiences alongside mindfulness and lactation knowledge, to create a toolbox of techniques for breastfeeding families, which she includes in her courses and book, The Mindful Breastfeeding Book. Anna believes whole-heartedly in prioritising calm and connection within our breastfeeding support practices, both for our clients and ourselves.
Anna lives in Cape Town, South Africa since moving from the UK in 2022 with her husband & 3 children. In her spare time she loves beach walks with her dogs, yoga and family get-togethers.Topic: Synchrony in Action: Breastfeeding, Co-Regulation & Parent-Infant Attachment - [View Abstract]
Abstract:View Full Presentation InformationBreastfeeding functions not only as a mode of infant nutrition but as a critical biopsychosocial process, influencing early relational development. This talk will examine how breastfeeding is linked to co-regulation through multisensory interaction, oxytocin release, and autonomic nervous system synchrony, thereby impacting stress levels and homeostasis in both mother and infant. Evidence from developmental neuroscience and attachment theory suggests that these regulatory processes are central to the formation of secure attachment, enhancing maternal sensitivity and infant socio-emotional development. Anna will address how interruptions to these regulatory dynamics can cause disruptions to breastfeeding as well as influence parental mental health and infant-parent bonding. Integrating perspectives from lactation science, psychology, and sociology, Anna’s session will focus on improving the biopsychosocial regulatory system through co-regulation techniques. Attendees will gain an enriched understanding of the links between attachment, co-regulation and breastfeeding as well as leave with practical skills that they can use with their clients, whatever setting they find themselves working in.
-
OTR/L, IBCLC, CNT, NTMTCBiography Topic Info
Jacklynn Knotts is an Occupational Therapist and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant who blends expertise in sensory processing, motor development, and feeding with advanced lactation care. She holds specialty certifications as a Certified Neonatal Therapist (CNT) and Neonatal Touch & Massage Therapy Certified (NTMTC), and has years of experience supporting families in the NICU and in her private practice. Jacklynn helps parents understand how a baby’s sensory systems shape comfort, coordination, and connection during feeding, and is passionate about creating positive, sensory aware feeding experiences that nurture both baby and parent.
Abstract:View Full Presentation InformationBreastfeeding is more than a nutritional act. It is a profoundly sensory and motor experience. Among the lesser-discussed but critically important systems involved in feeding is the proprioceptive system: the body’s ability to sense position, movement, and force. During breastfeeding, infants receive rich proprioceptive input through deep pressure, joint activation, and muscle engagement that support postural control, body awareness, and regulation. These sensory experiences help infants build the foundations for safe, efficient feeding.
Equally important, proprioceptive input aids in emotional regulation for both the infant and the breastfeeding parent. Infants benefit from the calming, organizing effects of deep pressure and containment, while parents experience enhanced body awareness, confidence in positioning, and physiological regulation through close contact and synchrony with their baby. This co-regulation is central to feeding success, comfort, and the parent-infant bond.
When breastfeeding is disrupted or absent, infants may miss opportunities for proprioceptive input that support motor development, midline orientation, and self-regulation. This webinar will explore the role of proprioception in breastfeeding, with a brief discussion of vestibular and interoceptive contributions. Participants will learn how sensory foundations influence feeding success and practical strategies to support proprioceptive input in both breast- and bottle-feeding contexts. -
PhD, IBCLCBiography Topic Info
Leslie has been providing lactation support in Central New Jersey for over 20 years - as a La Leche League (LLL) leader for 20 years, an IBCLC for WIC from 2014 to 2016, and in private practice IBCLC since 2011.
Leslie grew up in New York and New Jersey. She graduated from Cook College/Rutgers with a BS in Biochemistry, and from Rutgers University/UMDNJ with a PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Her difficulties with early breastfeeding, the help she received from LLL, and challenges with returning to work laid the foundation for her understanding of the importance of skilled and compassionate lactation and infant feeding support.Abstract:View Full Presentation InformationBreastfeeding is more than a means of nourishment - it plays a central role in shaping oral motor development and long-term health. This presentation will begin with an overview of the anatomical aspects of breastfeeding, highlighting the musculature, nervous system, and the integrated processes of swallowing and breathing. Building on this foundation, we will explore how breastfeeding stimulates the coordinated function of the lips, cheeks, tongue, jaw, and palate - and how they work together to support optimal oral development. We will also discuss the importance of coordination for suckling, swallowing, and breathing, as well as the possible impacts of oral ties, bottle feeding, and pacifiers. Finally, the session will connect early feeding experiences to long-term outcomes, including oral health, speech development, eating and drinking skills, airway health, and even body posture. By understanding these interconnected processes, healthcare providers can better support families in fostering healthy oral and overall development from infancy onward.
-
MOT, OTR/L, CNT, IBCLC, NTMTCBiography Topic Info
Stephanie is a certified neonatal occupational therapist and internationally board-certified lactation consultant. Stephanie is a wife to her husband of eight years (they've been together since 2009!) and a first-time mom to their curious and very energetic 2½-year-old son.
Since 2018, Stephanie has been honored to work with babies and their families in the NICU, supporting early development and nurturing the parent-infant bond. Her passion for lactation support began with her own experience as a new mom. Stephanie's son was born with a tongue and lip tie along with body tension that made the start of their breastfeeding journey incredibly challenging. After his release procedure, Stephanie leaned into her training in infant bodywork and massage to support his healing — and through that experience, she realized just how critical it is to prepare the body before a release, not just after.
That insight sparked a deeper commitment in Stephanie to learn more, and now she's here to help other families navigate similar challenges with knowledge, confidence, and compassion. Whether you're preparing for a release, recovering from one, or just trying to make feeding feel more connected and less stressful, Stephanie is here to support moms and their babies every step of the way.Topic: How Motor Patterns, Sensory Processing, and Newborn Reflexes Impact Breastfeeding - [View Abstract]
Abstract:View Full Presentation InformationBreastfeeding is a dynamic process shaped not only by maternal factors but also by the infant’s reflexes, motor patterns, and sensory processing. This presentation explores how infants’ neurological, sensory, and motor development influence latch, milk transfer, and feeding comfort. Participants will gain an evidence-based understanding of the suck–swallow–breathe triad and primitive reflexes as well as the role of sensory organization in breastfeeding success. Practical applications will highlight how to observe infant body cues, identify barriers such as motor fatigue or sensory sensitivities, and implement positioning and environmental strategies to support more effective and stress-free feeding.
This session bridges research and practice by emphasizing how body-led approaches can optimize feeding outcomes and parental confidence. By the end of the session, attendees will be able to assess motor and sensory readiness for feeding, apply responsive positioning techniques, and integrate these principles into individualized care plans. This presentation supports a deeper understanding of the infant’s body as an active driver of breastfeeding success, equipping professionals with strategies to promote healthier, more sustainable feeding experiences. -
BSN, MA, MPH, RN-BC, IBCLC, LCCEBiography Topic Info
Tanya Singleton is a registered nurse with over 40 years of experience in Maternal-Child nursing. More than half of that career was as a Labor and Delivery nurse, certified in High-Risk Perinatal nursing. Tanya is also an IBCLC lactation consultant and childbirth educator. She retired as United States Army Nurse Corp officer in 2003 and began working in private practice as a lactation consultant and parenting educator. She has run several community non-profits in the Fredericksburg, Virginia area that dealt with issues related to women’s and children’s health promotion and illness prevention. She is immediate past Chair of the State of Virginia Breastfeeding Advisory Committee, and is currently Chair of Postpartum Support Virginia Board of Directors. Tanya is committed to quality education and lifelong learning, and has taught maternal-child and pediatric nursing to students in the Rappahannock Region of Virginia, sharing her various clinical anecdotes in classroom and in labs. She is an advocate for Perinatal Grief Support and early detection of post-partum depression. She is owner and proprietor of The Baby Whisperer, providing in-home support in childbirth education, breastfeeding and parenting. She is a wife and the mother of a blended family of five adult children and Nana to four.
Topic: Breastfeeding, Skin-to-Skin, and Neurodevelopment: Unlocking the Blueprint for Brighter Beginnings - [View Abstract]
Title: Breastfeeding, Skin-to-Skin, and Neurodevelopment: Unlocking the Blueprint for Brighter BeginningsAbstract:View Full Presentation InformationThis presentation examines the impact of breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact on long-term neurodevelopment and child wellbeing. It elucidates the scientific foundations of these practices, detailing how breastfeeding facilitates neural development and fosters emotional resilience, while skin-to-skin interactions support neural pathway formation, soothe infants, and strengthen caregiver-infant bonds. Drawing on recent research, the session underscores the significance of nourishment and nurturing in influencing attachment, stress regulation, and developmental outcomes. Attendees will gain evidence-based insights to inform family support strategies and policy initiatives that advance healthy childhood development.
Educational Credits
This Add-on Lecture Pack offers 6 hours of education. CERPs, CMEs, Nurse Contact Hours and Midwifery Contact Hours (1 CEU is equivalent to 0.1 MEAC CEU) are applied for. Credits are cross recognized for those requiring Dietetic CPEUs. Learn more about the continuing education credits here.
Infant Development and Breastfeeding: The Body–Brain Connection Lecture Pack Purchase Details
Registration: Save the date! Early Bird Registration opens January 14, 2026.
(Currently only available to GOLD Lactation Online Conference 2026 Participants.)
Presentations Access: Starting April 1, 2026 & will be available to view on-demand until July 31, 2026 (August 21 for GOLD Annual Members)
Country Category, Group & Institutional Discount Pricing are available.
Looking to create a group? View our new Group Registration Benefits & Group Coordinator Tools.
Individual Registration
|
Group Registration (10+)
|
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Early Bird | Regular | Early Bird | Regular | |
| ACountry Category | $90 | $110 | $80 | $100 |
| BCountry Category | $40 | $50 | $30 | $40 |
| C & DCountry Category | $20 | $25 | $15 | $20 |
| What is my Country Category?All Prices in $USD |
Save the Date! Early Bird Registration Opens January 14, 2026. | |||
Add-on Purchase Details
- Group Registration: Pricing above is per person. Group rates for the Infant Development and Breastfeeding: The Body–Brain Connection Lecture Pack will be offered to members at the time of Main Conference Registration Only. As long as you have a group of 10+ members when you register for GOLD Lactation Conference, your members will have the option to purchase the add-on. Not all group members are required to purchase the add-on to qualify for group discount pricing. Groups members may choose to purchase the add-on after their conference registration however they will be charged the individual rate at that time.
Registering for the add-on is easy! You will be prompted to select this add-on package when registering for GOLD Lactation conference. You may also purchase this add-on lecture pack anytime during the time of the conference.
Should you have any questions about this special package, please contact us.
Important! Test Your Technology...
1. Please read our Terms and Conditions
2. Take our Technology Test to ensure your computer meets the conference requirements
By registering, you agree to the terms and conditions and have confirmed that your computer is suitable.
If your computer does not pass the Technology Test it is not advisable to register until the possible problem is resolved. Click here for more information or contact us for technical support at [email protected].Registration Categories
As an international conference, we are sensitive to the fact that not all countries are economically equal. As breastfeeding advocates we recognise that people in these countries generally have the most need for this information and limited resources, which is why in addition to our standard registration options, this year we are offering a special registration fee for residents from countries that fall in Cat. B, C & D. The Categories are based off of the World Bank Data. Please view our Reduced Rate Terms. Proof of residency maybe required.
Category A:
Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Bahrain, Barbados, Belgium, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Cayman Islands, Channel Islands, Chile, Curacao, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Faroe Islands, Finland, France, French Polynesia, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Greenland, Guam, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Isle of Man, Israel, Italy, Japan, Rep. Korea, Kuwait, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Macao, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Northern Mariana Islands, Norway, Oman, Palau, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Singapore, Saint Maarten (Dutch part), Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Martin (French part), Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Virgin Islands (U.S.). TOP
Category B:
Albania, Algeria, American Samoa, Argentina, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belize, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Botswana, Brazil, Bulgaria, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Equatorial Guinea, Fiji, Gabon, Grenada, Guyana, Iran (Islamic Rep.), Iraq, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Libya, Lithuania, FYR Macedonia, Malaysia, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Montenegro, Namibia, Nauru, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Romania, Russian Federation, Samoa, Serbia, South Africa, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Thailand, Tonga, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, RB Venezuela. TOP
Category C:
Angola, Armenia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Bolivia, Cabo Verde, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cote d'Ivoire, Djibouti, Egypt, Arab Rep., El Salvador, Georgia, Ghana, Guatemala, Honduras, India, Indonesia, Jordan, Kenya, Kiribati, Kosovo, Kyrgyz Republic, Lao PDR, Lesotho, Mauritania, Micronesia, Fed. Sts., Moldova, Mongolia, Morocco, Myanmar, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Sao Tome and Principe, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Swaziland, Timor-Leste, Tunisia, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Vietnam, West Bank and Gaza, Zambia. TOP
Category D:
Afghanistan, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Dem. Rep. Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, The Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, Dem. People's Rep. Korea, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique, Nepal, Niger, Puerto Rico, Rep. Congo, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Syrian Arab Republic, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Rep.Yemen, Zimbabwe.TOP
Dr. Speakers Full Name
Speaker Credentials
Annet Mulder first became interested in breastfeeding in the year 2000, when she became a mother for the first time. During and because of her own breastfeeding experiences, in 2002 she became a volunteer with the Dutch breastfeeding Organization and in 2008 sat for and passed the exam administered by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners. As an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, she now
Annet Mulder first became interested in breastfeeding in the year 2000, when she became a mother for the first time. During and because of her own breastfeeding experiences, in 2002 she became a volunteer with the Dutch breastfeeding Organization text text text text more name mulder first became interested in breastfeeding in the year 2000, when she became.
Dr. Speakers Full Name
Speaker Credentials