Abstract: A feeding device and a method for facilitating the transition from non-oral tube feeding to oral feeding is disclosed. The device comprises a fluid reservoir having a fluid outlet, a nipple having a fluid outlet, a shield attached to the nipple base, a conduit for conveying fluid from the reservoir to the nipple fluid outlet and a manually adjustable valve that is operable to prevent and control the flow of fluid through the conduit. The method comprises the steps of providing a device of the type just described, acclimating an infant to the device by closing the valve and inserting the nipple into the infant's mouth. The valve is then opened to permit the very slow flow of fluid through the nipple outlet. Additional feeding regimens are provided in which restriction of the flow of fluid is gradually relaxed over a series of feedings until the infant is able to withdraw about sixty cubic centimeters of fluid during a twenty minute feeding without distress.