The Early Cleft Years Course: Practical Guidance from Diagnosis to 24 Months

A trusted guide for caregivers of cleft-affected babies - offering practical tips and a clear roadmap from diagnosis through 2 years. The 8-module course covers everything from feeding to surgery prep and post-op care, with research-backed insights and real-life advice.

Take the Course

THIS COURSE WILL WALK YOU THROUGH:

  • Your family's journey from diagnosis to 24 months — What to expect throughout the journey to help you feel prepared.

  • Firsthand learnings from other parents — Honest lessons, real-life insights, and "wish I'd known" reflections from fellow cleft parents.

  • Practical prep tips for baby's arrival — From must-have baby gear to hospital bag checklists & navigating the first days at home.

  • Feeding & soothing parenting tips — Trusted advice on bottles, pacifiers, introducing solids, and open-cup transitions for cleft-affected babies.

  • Navigating pre-surgical care & surgery — Understanding taping, NAMs, surgical timing, and how to support your baby’s healing.

  • Additional insights — High-level overview of neonatal teeth, reflux, ears, speech, sleep apnea, dry lips, etc.

Learn more

What’s Inside

MODULE 1

Resources, Conversations, & Support

This module provides general information, an extensive list of resources, ideas on how to prepare siblings, ideas for navigating difficult conversations, & more.

MODULE 2

Prenatal Apts, Birth, Year 1-2 Overview

This module addresses the many questions parents face after learning the diagnosis and provides info on what you can expect in the first years.

MODULE 3

How to Prepare

This module provides a high-level overview of how to prepare for your baby’s arrival.

MODULE 4

Infant Milk & Pacifiers

This module reviews the cleft bottles and many of the questions parents face about feeding their baby and navigating pacifiers.

MODULE 5

Solids & Cups

This module provides an overview of introducing solids and provides tips & tricks for transitioning to cups, including straws.

MODULE 6

Pre-surgical Interventions

This module provides an overview of the pre-surgical interventions and outlines tips and tricks for managing each one. 

MODULE 7

Surgery

This module shares tips and tricks for navigating lip and palate repair surgery.

MODULE 8

Additional Topics

This module provides information on Teeth, Reflux, Ears, Speech, Sleep Apnea, Dry Lips.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Parenting is usually learned from family & friends, but when your baby has a cleft, that support often isn’t there.

I built Behind the Smile to be the guide I wish our family had & believe every cleft family deserves.