15 Month Old Doesn't Eat

Jen had a good suggestion of trying to get someone to meet with him at your house. If you're willing I would try and locate the number to the local Parents as Teachers and have her sign him up. Of course, you'll have to just hope that she actually does it. You could offer i suppose, but I 'm not sure if that will work. Anyway, maybe they could meet wtih the child at your house, although that's not ideal, maybe at least for one of the initial times so you could ask questions and voice your concerns too. As I type it out, it seems more unrealistic than it did in my head, but maybe it's worth a shot. I would just ask some follow up questions about whether or not she's made an appointment for him at the speech path., etc. I would even ask your own pediatrician the next time you're there for some ideas on how to help, etc. In the end, I think maybe you just need to tell her that you're going to start him on some finger foods. If she throws a bit fit, then of course you can't do it, she's the mom, but I bet if you press it just a bit, she'll probably cave and let you do it. Maybe if you start offering it to him he'll start to get it or at least be interested. I wish I had better advice, this sounds like a tricky situation! Good luck and I'd be interested to know how it turns out!

Keep trying anytime you eat give him a try too. Does he hold a cup or bring anything to his mouth? Let mom know you can meet/take him to therapy. Also check with local school district they may have a program for the little guy too. Good Luck.
J.

I honestly don't think it's your place to call anyone or be asking this question. I understand you're concerned, but children have their own time table.. Just because they are 'behind' the standard doesn't mean that his mother is neglectful. I have a feeling that if you follow the suggestions posted on this message board, you'll be out of a job...

Hi, M.:

Do you all have any child advocacy programs in your area?
If you do, talk to someone.
Did you interview the Mom so you know exactly what it is she is afraid of?
Thanks for caring.
D.

A friend of mine had to take her child to an occupational therapist because he wouldn't eat solid foods. Unfortunately, I don't know that there is much that you can do as the babysitter except to gently point out that he is developmentally behind, and that you'd be willing to have the therapist come to your house to work with him during the day if that makes it easier for him to get the help he needs (if in fact you would be willing to do this) . Ultimately it is up to the parents to get the appropriate help for her child.

In my opinion, this woman has starved her child. He doesn't need speech therapy, he needs occupational therapy! I hate to say it, but you need to contact the authorities.