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Your Baby May Not Be a Fan of Solid Food, But Don’t Panic
by Sarah Thompson
Updated: May 6, 2021
Originally Published: November 23, 2016
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When my first child, Leo, encountered solid food for the first time, it was as if we had offered him something utterly revolting. His reaction was dramatic: he recoiled from the spoon, scrunched up his adorable little face in utter disgust, and even let out a wail.
RELATED: Understanding and Choosing Baby’s First Foods — A Practical Guide for Parents
I still have photos to document that moment.
I didn’t see this coming. Leo was generally a cheerful baby — healthy, chubby, and an excellent breastfeeder. Around 5 months, he began reaching for our meals, so I let him explore a banana and an apple slice (with close supervision, of course). He was so enamored with the apple that I decided to introduce applesauce as his first solid food at the 6-month mark.
In hindsight, applesauce might not have been the best choice, especially since it can be a bit tart, but after a week of trying mashed banana, his reaction was the same: he wanted nothing to do with solid food and made that crystal clear.
Fortunately, by around 9 months, Leo finally started to accept food, although he remained a picky eater for several years. Now, at almost 10, he’s starting to broaden his culinary horizons! However, I vividly recall the anxiety I felt when he was 6, 7, and 8 months old, rejecting everything I offered. I was inundated with advice from all corners. Despite my instincts telling me he would eat when he was ready, self-doubt crept in, making me question if something was wrong with him or with me.
To all the parents out there facing similar challenges, here are some insights I gained from my experience, along with wisdom from having navigated this journey successfully.
1. Understand Solid Food Readiness Varies
There’s no one-size-fits-all timeline for when your baby will enjoy solids. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the recommended age to start is around 6 months, but that’s just a guideline. Starting solids is a gradual learning experience, and if your baby isn’t interested, it might simply not be the right time.
2. Experiment with Textures and Flavors
Some babies turn their noses up at mushy foods, while others want to take the spoon and feed themselves. Experimenting with different flavors and textures helps babies discover what they enjoy. Plus, it’s a great way to develop their gag reflex and familiarize yourself with this new phase.
3. Trust Your Baby Over Outside Opinions
While everyone has their own advice on feeding schedules, remember that your baby knows best. If they refuse food, there’s usually a good reason. We wouldn’t want to be forced to eat something we don’t like, so treat your baby with the same respect.
4. Be Aware of Potential Feeding Issues
In rare cases, babies may have genuine feeding difficulties, such as swallowing issues or allergies. If you suspect a problem, consult a medical professional. If you feel dismissed, seek a second opinion because your instincts as a parent are powerful.
5. Avoid Comparisons
Every child is unique. Just as some babies walk at 9 months while others wait until 18 months, eating habits can vary widely. Most babies will be eating solids by 9 to 12 months, so try not to stress if your little one is a late bloomer.
6. Continue Breastfeeding or Bottle Feeding
Health organizations recommend breastfeeding for at least a year and formula feeding as well, even after introducing solids. Milk provides essential nutrients that small amounts of baby food can’t match. If your baby isn’t eating much, let breast milk or formula fill the nutritional gaps.
7. Opt for Nutrient-Rich Solid Foods
If your baby is a light eater, focus on solid foods that are packed with nutrition. Choose options rich in healthy fats and iron, like avocados or sweet potatoes, rather than rice cereal, which tends to be less nutritionally dense.
8. Practice Patience
When your child isn’t progressing as quickly as others, it’s natural to feel impatient. However, almost all babies eventually warm up to solid foods. Allow your little one to explore, and if they become upset, take a break. Keep it relaxed, breathe, and give it time. I promise you, if my initially reluctant eater eventually embraced solid foods, yours will too. Sooner than you know, they’ll be eating you out of house and home!
For more insights, check out our post on family building options, which offers excellent resources for pregnancy and home insemination. If you’re interested in at-home insemination, consider visiting Cryobaby, a reputable retailer for syringe kits. And for a deeper dive into feeding concerns, visit this link.
Summary:
Navigating your baby’s introduction to solid foods can be challenging, especially if they show resistance. Remember that readiness varies, and it’s essential to trust your baby’s instincts while exploring various textures and flavors. Keep an open mind, ditch the comparisons, and focus on nutrient-rich foods while remaining patient throughout the process.
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