Binkytrainer
Binkytrainer
Plunger
Tubing Syringe
Binky trainer
What is a It is a pacifier that has been modified with a tube and syringe. It helps your baby
binky trainer? practice sucking small amounts of milk using a slow and controlled flow rate.
How do I 1. Always have clean hands when handling the binky trainer.
prepare the 2. Gently squeeze and roll the end of the pacifier between your index finger and
binky trainer? thumb until the tubing is almost even with the end of the pacifier.
If the tube sticks out too much, it may be uncomfortable for your baby.
3. If the tubing falls out of the pacifier, push the tubing back through the end of
the pacifier with a small pair of sanitized pliers or tweezers.
4. Fill the syringe with breastmilk or formula.
5. Insert the syringe into the end of the tubing and push milk through until it
drips out of the tip of the pacifier.
How do I use • Make sure your baby is awake and interested in sucking. To find out,
offer your baby a regular pacifier or your finger.
the binky
trainer? • Have your baby in the position recommended by your therapist.
• Offer your baby the binky trainer. When your baby first starts to suck, pinch
the plunger of the syringe so they won’t get too much milk.
Then, release your pinch to see how much milk your baby is getting.
You will need to adjust the flow so your baby gets milk at the right speed
(not too fast or too slow).
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To adjust the
flow of milk
• If the plunger is not moving when your baby sucks, give gentle pressure to the
end of the plunger. The plunger should move a little each time the baby sucks
(1 hash mark every 3-5 sucks).
• Do not push milk into your baby’s mouth when they are not sucking.
• If the plunger is moving very quickly, pinch it to slow or stop the flow. Keep a
flow rate of 1 hash mark every 3-5 sucks.
• As your baby feeds, their sucking strength may change. So, you may need to
change from pinching the plunger to giving pressure to assist the flow.
• If your baby seems stressed or uncomfortable while using the binky trainer,
either slow the flow down, or stop the flow for a short break.
• You should use the binky trainer as often as recommended by your therapist
or doctor. They will also tell you how much milk to give your baby each time
you use the binky trainer.
• Fill the syringe with clean water and flush it through the binky trainer several
How do I times. Then, flush with air. Flushes should be brisk to dislodge any reside on
clean the the inside of the tubing. Allow to air dry.
binky trainer? • You will get a new binky trainer every 24 hours while you are in the hospital.
At home, you can use it longer. Clean it after each use by pushing clean water
and then air thru the tube. After several uses, clean it more thoroughly with
soap and water, in the dishwasher or in a microwave steam bag.
Binky trainer • Your baby should only get milk while they are sucking on the binky trainer.
tips • Make sure the flow is “just right” for your baby – not too fast or too slow.
• You and your baby should enjoy your time with the binky trainer. If you feel
stress or sense that your baby is uncomfortable, take a break and try again at
another time.
Seattle Children’s offers interpreter services for Deaf, hard of hearing or non-English speaking patients, family members and
legal representatives free of charge. Seattle Children’s will make this information available in alternate formats upon request. 1/19
Call the Family Resource Center at 206-987-2201. This handout has been reviewed by clinical staff at Seattle Children’s. However,
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your child’s needs are unique. Before you act or rely upon this information, please talk with your child’s healthcare provider.
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