S2, Ep. 28: All About Thrive's Tube Weaning Program

What actually happens inside Thrive’s tube weaning program, and why does it work when other approaches haven’t? In this episode, Jeni and Heidi break down what our tube weaning program really looks like and answer some of the most common questions we hear from parents and caregivers.

At Thrive, offer a range of supports, from intensive tube weaning (virtual or in-person) to ongoing feeding therapy, parent coaching, and virtual guidance. At the center of all of it is one key idea: lasting change happens when parents are supported to support their child.

Everything begins with a comprehensive, virtual evaluation. We look at the whole child (not just feeding!) by considering medical history, development, sensory processing, lived experiences, and family dynamics. Our multidisciplinary team (speech, OT, dietitian as needed) collaborates closely with your child’s medical provider to ensure safety and alignment.

If your child is a good fit, we move into preparation, which includes a parent toolkit and coaching. This step is foundational in getting everyone on the same page before making any changes. We often find that preparation is a game changer.

From there, we begin hunger induction in a safe, medically guided way, followed by a 10-day intensive phase where:

• Parents receive real-time coaching (virtual or in-person)

• Meals are supported live whenever possible

• The environment, not just the child, is adjusted for success

• Hunger is used as a tool—but never the only tool

Our goal is not to “get food in,” but to help children learn: “When I feel hungry, I can do something about it.”

We allow hunger to develop within a responsive feeding framework, which means:

• The child stays in charge of their eating

• Stress, pressure, and dysregulation are actively addressed

• The environment is adapted to support success

• Parents are coached, not sidelined

Hunger alone isn’t enough and neither is coaching alone. Kids need internal motivation + external support working together.

The 10-day intensive is just the beginning. The next 6 months of follow-up are equally important and often overlooked.

During this time:

• Skills continue to build

• Weight first fluctuates, then stabilizes, then gradually increases

• Families navigate real-life challenges (illness, travel, routine changes)

• Children keep “figuring it out” with ongoing support

Tube weaning is not a quick fix! It’s a process that unfolds over time.

When determining if your child is a good fit for our program, we’re not looking for a specific age or skill level. Instead, we look for:

• Medical stability and safety

• Developmental readiness and potential

• A family environment that can support the process

We don’t have “disqualifying diagnoses,” but we do individualize goals and treatment based on each child.

Our 10-day therapy intensive is offered either virtually or in-person, based on a multitude of factors, and determined by the clinical team. Both options can be highly effective. In fact, we often see similar outcomes because our model is parent-centered.

• Virtual care allows us to coach you in your real environment

• In-person care offers hands-on, in-the-room support

• Both prioritize helping your child learn to eat where it matters most: at home

While we’re not in-network with most insurance companies, we do work to secure single case agreements when possible and help families navigate funding options.

If you’re curious whether this could be a fit for your child, we offer a free 45-minute intake call to:

• Learn about your child

• Answer your questions

• Determine next steps together

Tube weaning isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s about understanding your child, supporting your family, and building the skills that lead to lasting change. If you’re ready to explore what that could look like, we’re here to help you take the next step. Reach out via email: Thrive@spectrumpediatrics.com

** 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