Hi Cristy, Food usually does not get stuck on the palate as it is propelled down by the swallowing mechanism. However, the process might not function well in cleft palate patients because the muscles were not attached to one another and in a proper location because of the cleft. During the surgical process, a repair of the muscles is done so as to recover at least some function. However, in those patients in whom this function does not return adequately, the palatal movement might be weak and this might contribute to food sticking on the palate. I recommend you visit your surgeon for further assessment of the palatal function and the need for any behavioral therapy for your child.