One of my favorite is taking candy, gum, anything that may be difficult to chew and tie it into Tulle (tutu material). Then Annabelle has a knot to hold on to and can work those muscles for chewing without the dangers of swallowing too early and choking.
We also bought a new "P chewer" for Annabelle. She has been walking around chewing it like it's her job. I don't know what made her love it now when before she wanted nothing to do with it but it's so great for helping strengthen those jaw muscles for eating and talking :)
I have a couple new recipes I've made over the past few months. We are now trying a thicker chopped food for the start of meals then finishing with a puree for the calories when she tires from the chewing. I've also been working on using the P chewer or the NUK brush to help move food over to her teeth when it gets stuck on her tongue since she is not laterally moving food on her own 100% yet.
Another great DF resource I reference often is http://weelicious.com/category/dairy-free/. I'm also going to start a DF board on Pinterest along with all the other therapy ideas, ideas for Annabelle, and food for Annabelle.
Quick recipe before Annabelle wakes up for another busy day, enjoy!
Broccoli Cheese Bites
16 oz. package of chopped broccoli or cauliflower (frozen or fresh steamed)
1 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese (I used Trader Joe's vegan mozzarella)
1 cup of breadcrumbs (homemade or Panko breadcrumbs will keep it dairy free)
3 eggs
salt & pepper
Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl.
Form small patties and put on a parchment lined baking sheet.
Bake at 375F for 25 minutes, turning the patties after the first 15 minutes.
Let cool, blend in blender, use a quick chop or knife to make the right consistency
