Welcome back! In this episode, Jeni and Heidi are talking about how families can form an effective and collaborative team to support their child through the process of tube weaning. Too often, parents find themselves feeling isolated on their child’s tube weaning journey. They are either waiting for a plan that never comes or are trying to piece it together alone. With the right information and questions, a supportive team can be built. As we discussed in last week’s episode, parents are not just bystanders in this process—they are essential members of the team. You know your child best, and your voice, insights, and presence are vital in shaping both the plan and the outcome. It is vital to a child's success in tube weaning to work with professionals who view parents as experts and partners, and who understand that feeding skill development and long-term outcomes are closely tied to the parent-child relationship. 

Jeni and Heidi also discuss the other key players on a strong tube weaning team: a medical provider who can set safety parameters around hydration, weight, and who knows your child’s medical history well; a therapist (often a speech or occupational therapist) who supports day-to-day progress through a child-led, strengths-based approach; and, of course, you, the parent, guiding and advocating every step of the way. Collaboration across all team members is crucial, even when it’s challenging. Jeni and Heidi offer practical guidance for asking the right questions, building trust, and planning for “what if” scenarios along the way. Tube weaning isn’t all-or-nothing—it’s a gradual, individualized process. With the right team in place, it can be safe, supported, and successful. 

** 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.** 

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