We know for some the concept may feel like a strange one within a community of often non-oral feeders and the role food plays for tube fed children can be an emotional one. The important distinction for me was that I recognised that the emotional trigger was mine as his mum and not his. When we let go of the idea of food purely as something that is eaten, and do activities with food, he loves them.

The Role of Food in Parenthood

Providing food is one of the most instinctive ways we express love and care. For parents of tube-fed children, it can feel as though this fundamental part of nurturing has been taken away. It can challenge our sense of identity as parents, especially as mothers. Many of us hold onto images of baking with our children, moments that symbolize togetherness and tradition. When reality diverges from expectation, the loss can feel profound.

But food can still be a source of connection. Redefining our relationship with it—both as parents and as families—can be a deeply healing experience.

Modeling Interaction & Communication

These sessions offer a space to explore, interact, and communicate through food. By modeling engagement, language, and shared experiences, we help strengthen the bonds between parent, sibling, and child.

Our sessions are offered as either ‘Bake Club’ or ‘Family Bake,’ ensuring that siblings have the opportunity to join in, learn, and take part in these interactions. The connection between siblings is often overlooked in these conversations, but shared experiences like these can help bridge that gap, fostering understanding and closeness.

To further support communication, recipes will be adapted into Makaton and/or Picture Exchange Communication Systems, using either low-tech methods or Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Families will also receive copies to take home, allowing for recall and continued interaction. And there is something truly special about a child sharing a homemade treat with a loved one, a teacher, a therapist, a sibling & feeling that immense pride in what they’ve created.

Shifting the Social Dynamic

Many children in this community are so often on the receiving end of care - having things done to them rather than with them. But baking offers a shift in power. By creating something they can share, they experience the joy of giving.

We encourage families to not only enjoy the final product together but to also capture the process through photos and videos. These moments allow for reflection, conversation, and a sense of inclusion long after the session has ended.

Sensory Exploration

Sensory experiences are unique to each child, and these sessions are designed to be fully adaptable. Whether a child enjoys hands-on messy play or prefers to participate in a different way, we tailor the level of sensory engagement to their individual preferences.

For children who may not want to touch certain textures, we can incorporate buttons and switches to allow them to direct the activity, ensuring they remain an active participant. Visual and auditory stimulation are woven throughout, making it an experience that is accessible, engaging, and above all joyful.