Both of the boys went for their annual physicals today. Benett saw the pediatrician, Jonah saw Dr. Debbie.
We had two main items to discuss with the pediatrician: his slowed weight gain/low weight, and his gross motor development. I should preface by saying that Joel and I truly are not overly concerned with either - particularly the weight gain. That seems to be more of a formality. The development is more something we are overly cautious on for good reason. It's a fine line between a late bloomer and having something wrong.
So, the ped basically said that Benett isn't challenged enough physically and we need to just leave him be to cry until his frustration becomes the motivation. I agree to a certain extent, but am grappling with his suggestion. After all, I commented on the techniques we have tried - all of which were suggested by the OT and PT at Jonah's school - and he had absolutely no other suggestions. Just let him cry.
Geez.
Regarding the weight, well, he just ticked me right off.
I was told to stop breastfeeding. Completely.Because apparently he isn't getting enough calories. Oh, and not to allow Benett to drink anything except formula. Except that he doesn't like the taste of formula. But that I shouldn't allow him any other choice for up to THREE DAYS. Because he is programmed to get what he wants. And we shouldn't let him win. That he will just have to get used to the taste. Isn't that just the nicest thing?
Can you hear me screaming?!
I spoke with our family doctor immediately after since we were in for Jonah's check up.
I love her.
She completely supports me in my decision to continue doing what we are doing with his diet. To change NOTHING. She feels, as we do, that his low weight is a genetic factor, and as long as he is gaining weight, no matter how slowly, that everything is fine. He is chubby. He is happy. He is developing well. And most of all, he is healthy.
Funny thing is, the pediatrician agreed that he is healthy. Yet he disagreed that increasing his weight was driven by trying to get him to a number on a chart.
Needless to say, we will not be returning to this pediatrician.
Oh, and Ben's stats? 17.3lbs, 28.5"
Jonah: 35.5 lbs, 40"
We had two main items to discuss with the pediatrician: his slowed weight gain/low weight, and his gross motor development. I should preface by saying that Joel and I truly are not overly concerned with either - particularly the weight gain. That seems to be more of a formality. The development is more something we are overly cautious on for good reason. It's a fine line between a late bloomer and having something wrong.
So, the ped basically said that Benett isn't challenged enough physically and we need to just leave him be to cry until his frustration becomes the motivation. I agree to a certain extent, but am grappling with his suggestion. After all, I commented on the techniques we have tried - all of which were suggested by the OT and PT at Jonah's school - and he had absolutely no other suggestions. Just let him cry.
Geez.
Regarding the weight, well, he just ticked me right off.
I was told to stop breastfeeding. Completely.Because apparently he isn't getting enough calories. Oh, and not to allow Benett to drink anything except formula. Except that he doesn't like the taste of formula. But that I shouldn't allow him any other choice for up to THREE DAYS. Because he is programmed to get what he wants. And we shouldn't let him win. That he will just have to get used to the taste. Isn't that just the nicest thing?
Can you hear me screaming?!
I spoke with our family doctor immediately after since we were in for Jonah's check up.
I love her.
She completely supports me in my decision to continue doing what we are doing with his diet. To change NOTHING. She feels, as we do, that his low weight is a genetic factor, and as long as he is gaining weight, no matter how slowly, that everything is fine. He is chubby. He is happy. He is developing well. And most of all, he is healthy.
Funny thing is, the pediatrician agreed that he is healthy. Yet he disagreed that increasing his weight was driven by trying to get him to a number on a chart.
Needless to say, we will not be returning to this pediatrician.
Oh, and Ben's stats? 17.3lbs, 28.5"
Jonah: 35.5 lbs, 40"
March 25, 2010 at 8:56 PM
BAH! How maddening!
March 26, 2010 at 9:36 AM
Isn't it funny, that years ago, you kids were fed via the breast until your mom felt it was time to stop and you started eating and drinking normal foods. Just keep on with the norm! You should have asked your PED when was the last time he took care of a child himself (like women do!). Keep on suckin' Ben! you'll miss it later in life buddy!
March 27, 2010 at 11:21 AM
What a horrible doctor. Does he not know that part of his job is to listen to the parents and the kids as well????
Good for you to sticking to what you believe in, and your family doctor thankfully seems to support you:-)