Hi all!
I have been lurking for some time and really enjoy learning from everyone's
experiences.  Recently, had a mother of three ask about the effects of
breastfeeding on speech development.  Her third child, who will be 3 in June,
was extremely premature (actual birth date June 26, due date Oct. 5).
Needless to say, he experienced several life threatening episodes and was on
the vent for over a month.  Baby received pumped breastmilk and was able to
latch on and nurse successfully at about one month and has been breastfeed
ever since.  Although he has some motor development problems (wears plastic
braces on feet),  a "Speech Therapist" evaluated his speech as above normal
for his age.  However, an "Occupational Therapist" advised mom to WEAN AS SOON
AS POSSIBLE because the fat pads which develop in the baby's cheeks will very
negatively affect his speech development.  Mother was very disbelieving
because both other children are in talented and gifted programs and speak
perfectly fine.  The OT stated that she had recently been to an OT Conference
where this was advised and she would GUIDE mother in what she should do.  I
understand just the opposite is true, BF helps develop muscles needed for
speech?

Thanks for any comments or info!
Shirley from Michigan where the sun is shining today!
RN, MSA, CCE, IBCLC