Pediatric Feeding Therapy for Cleft Lip & Palate
in Bentonville, AR

A child with a cleft lip or palate can face unique challenges, especially regarding feeding and nutrition. Children with these conditions can experience frustration and discomfort when feeding, but combining medical treatment and feeding therapy can help them thrive.

No Limits Pediatric Therapy supports children and families every step of the way. Our feeding therapists use fun, evidence-based methods to handle feeding difficulties related to cleft lip or palate. Together, we can help your child gain the nutrition and confidence they need to reach their fullest potential.

What Is a Cleft Lip?

Cleft means “split or divided in two.” A cleft lip is a split (or a “cleft”) of the upper lip during development when your baby is in the womb. This separation can affect one or both sides of the lip and may extend up to the nose.

Cleft lips range in severity and can impact a child’s ability to latch onto a bottle or breast, affecting feeding and speech development. Surgery is needed to correct this condition, but therapy can help your baby manage feeding both before and after their surgery.

What Is a Cleft Palate?

A cleft palate is an opening in the roof of the mouth that also happens during development when your baby is in the womb. It occurs when the tissues of the roof of the mouth don’t join together properly during pregnancy.

Cleft palates can interfere with feeding, speech, hearing, and oral health. Surgery is needed to correct this condition, but therapy can help your baby manage feeding both before and after their surgery.

How Can a Cleft Lip or Palate Affect Your Child's Development?

Children with cleft lips or palates may experience a range of developmental challenges. These can include:

Difficulty with breastfeeding or bottle feeding
Nasal-sounding speech or speech delays
Chronic ear infections or hearing problems
Issues with swallowing and choking risk
Dental problems, including misaligned teeth

How Feeding Therapy Helps Children with a Cleft Lip or Palate

At No Limits Pediatric Therapies, we offer specialized feeding therapy to help children with a cleft lip or palate overcome feeding challenges and thrive. Our team will assess your child’s unique needs and provide strategies to make eating safer and more effective.

We’ll work on improving muscle coordination for swallowing, modifying feeding techniques to minimize choking risks, and supporting your family with practical guidance for feeding at home. Our caring team uses play-based and neurodiversity-affirming methods to help children build the skills to enjoy meals and get the nutrients they need for a future with no limits.

Schedule a Free Consultation with Our Experts

If your child has a cleft lip or palate, reach out today for a free 15-minute consultation with our experts at No Limits.