Hello all.
I'm new to this (not parenting, asking for help in forums) and have been told that Mumsnet is the way forward re advice so here goes.......
My 9 month old son has a very wide cleft palate, amoungst other issues and is currently on month 5 of weaning. Like others, I was told by his docs to wean early due to his conditions. However, I am getting a bit worried that I will never get him to "eat". He has reflux and has never taken milk from a bottle or cup. He has no sucking reflex. Trust me when I tell you that I have done everything that I have been asked to by his army of healthcare professionals, and read every book / leaflet I could get my hands on. My daughter did weaning in her sleep but had no health concerns to deal with. I feel a bit dispondent now if I'm honest and scared that I'm going to get into trouble for the lack of progress. I'm sure this is something he will pick up!!
He is due for his first palate op in 2 weeks but the few times we've seen his Speech Therapsit, she's insisted he be tube free. Fine, I would love not to have to pass a tube down his throat via his nose on a regular basis but I could just do with any help you lovely ladies may have? Any advice, tips etc? Or dads, sorry!!
I've tried smooth puree, lumpier textures, finger food, at the table with us, toothbrush now he has teeth, cups, bottles, high chairs, pinics on the floor, eating with him, playing choo choo or aeroplanes etc. telly v's no telly. As you can imagine, bit tired now and fast running out of ideas. Oh and he has a milk allergy.
He has 3 250ml feeds per day via a pump which can take up to an hour if the reflux kicks in.
I'd love to hear from anyone who could help. Thank you in advance!!