I can do it! |
All her liquids must be thickened with either rice cereal or a thickening product (one we tried was called "Thick It" and it continued to thicken over time turning milk products into sludge...ick!). Apparently, the new rage is a gel thickener, but it's more expensive. There are different levels of thickening and Rae needs to have her fluids thickened to "nectar" consistency, which is the lowest, the next being "honey" and the thickest being "pudding" (might as well just eat your liquids with a spoon). I'm very thankful we did not have to go any higher on the viscosity scale because that means we're much closer to our goal... No more thickener!
Ok...trying to make a long story short.
Rae's tongue came out to touch the Nuk brush! |
This week we had our first official appointments with Ms. Nichole (she's kind of funny). Already, Rae has surprised Ms. Nichole with the variety of foods and textures she's able (and willing) to eat. It was also a great relief to her that Rae isn't scared of new people so we don't have to have an adjustment (getting to know you) period. Rae isn't the only one learning...I've also learned a few things too! When Rae throws her head back durning meals, she is trying to move food around in her mouth (I thought she was just being silly). I'm looking forward to working with her and with Rae over the next few months and hope the feeding therapy will help resolve the aspiration problem and maybe a few other issues (tongue lateralization...side to side movement).
Hang in there girl. I know all the therapy can drive you crazy. I've got two special needs kiddos with 5 therapies a week plus 4 days of preschool. It can drive you batty but I know you know it is totally worth it.
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