In this episode, Jeni and Heidi dive into the often-overlooked but incredibly powerful concept of pausing both before and along the tube weaning journey. After months—or even years—of pushing through medical challenges, therapies, and constant decisions, many families reach a point where forward movement feels exhausting.

Stepping back doesn’t mean giving up; it can actually create the space where the most meaningful progress happens. Pausing allows for emotional and physical repair—for both your child and yourself—and gives everyone a chance to find stability before pushing forward again. Jeni and Heidi explore how to recognize signs of tension or burnout (like dreading mealtimes), and why co-regulation—tuning into both your nervous system and your child’s—is such a vital part of this process. You’ll hear strategies for creating calm, pressure-free mealtimes, honoring your child’s need for space, and learning to trust the slow, sometimes messy path of tube weaning. We also reflect on the emotional work parents do—advocating, observing, supporting—and how important it is to give yourself credit and care along the way. This episode is a gentle invitation to trust that progress isn’t always about doing more, but about allowing space for healing, growth, and connection.

** 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. 11: The Power of the Pause

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