For infants in the NICU, especially those born prematurely, breast or bottle feeding effectively can oftentimes be a challenge. Maturational and developmental issues impact a premature infant’s ability to adequately coordinate their sucking, swallowing, and breathing. Yet, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), attainment of adequate oral feedings that fully support growth without physiologic instability is a skill that needs to be fully established prior to an infant’s discharge from the NICU.
But, what is the best way to achieve full oral feedings in a developmentally supportive manner? For this podcast, we review cue-based feeding programs and why there has been a recent shift in the paradigm to move away from volume-driven feedings in the NICU. We discuss what places NICU infants, especially those born prematurely, at an increased risk for oral aversion and how we as caregivers and parents can minimize the risk. We discuss the benefits of cue-based feedings including how it promotes a more positive feeding experience for the infant and caregiver, its ability to support an infant’s neurodevelopment, as well as findings from some recent research studies that have focused on cue-based feeding.
If you are a clinician and curious about implementing a cue-based feeding program into your NICU, then stay tuned to hear all of the potential benefits. And for my parents who are listening, you will learn how beneficial it is to learn your infant’s behavioral cues which will ultimately support your infant’s development in the NICU and at home. You will not want to miss it, so stay tuned!


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