In this episode, Jeni and Heidi dive into how parents can play a powerful role in protecting and supporting their child’s journey from tube feeding to eating by mouth. When preparing, it’s easy to focus on the practical things like what foods to buy, which cup to use, and what’s the best bottle out there. What really matters is understanding what’s going on under the surface for both you and your child.

For many kids, especially those with a history of medical challenges, food can be overwhelming. Even something as simple as a new texture or smell might feel scary. Recognizing that your child might not feel safe with food yet helps you meet them with more patience and empathy. Many parents carry emotional weight from past experiences around feeding. Stress, fear, and trauma—it’s real, and you’re not alone. Taking time to understand what you’re bringing into mealtimes can make a big difference. Getting support for yourself is not selfish—it’s essential. Feeding won’t always go smoothly, and that’s normal. What matters is having a plan for the “what ifs”: what if your child refuses food, or you feel overwhelmed? Giving yourself a break, asking for help, or having a different topic to talk about at the table can help shift energy in a healthy way.

Instead of counting bites or measuring progress by how much your child eats, we need to shift our mindset around what we consider a success. In the tube weaning process, it’s important to focus on things like: Did my child feel safe? Did we enjoy time together? Was the food offered in a way that respected their needs? These are real, meaningful wins. Your number one job is to protect your child’s sense of comfort and safety at the table. With preparation, reflection, and a focus on connection, you’re creating the foundation for your child’s eating skills to grow.

** Please remember this podcast is NOT meant to replace the support and guidance of your child's medical team. Consult with your doctor before starting the weaning process.**

Don’t forget to follow us on social media for more helpful information @Thrivewithspectrum on Instagram and Thrive by Spectrum Pediatrics on Facebook. You can also find out more information about the programs we offer at www.thrivewithspectrum.com

S2, Ep. 10: How Parents Protect Mealtimes During Tube Weaning

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