I understand what you are saying about wanting to wait until the child can understand what the tube is for and therefore being able to help participate in the decision-making process. In an ideal world, we wouldn't put our kids through any procedures until they were old enough to be able to consent to them (with the reasoning skills to be able to look at the pros and cons and long-term consequences of either choice.) However, by that point, the child's health and well-being can be in so much jeopardy that waiting is simply NOT in their best interests. In this case, it comes down to preserving long-term health and adding YEARS to life by providing the best possible start through good nutrition. I am certain that is what your parents were trying to provide for you, as well. <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0">