We've all been there—you lovingly prepare a healthy meal for your child, only to be greeted with pursed lips, a head turn, or the infamous food swipe. It can be infuriating, but keep in mind that this is a normal stage and can be navigated with some creativity and patience. Here's how to deal with it like a pro:
1. Remain Calm and Positive
Babies are very sensitive. They will sense your stress or frustration and make mealtime more difficult. Keep the environment light and cheerful. Smile, establish eye contact, and maintain a positive tone of voice to help them feel more relaxed.
2. Respect Their Appetite (or Lack of It)
Babies have tiny tummies and unpredictable appetites. Avoid forcing or pressuring them to eat. Rather, rely on their own natural hunger signals. Occasionally, missing a meal or eating a small amount is completely normal.
3. Provide a Variety of Textures and Flavors
Babies, just like adults, will tire of the same flavors. Mix up the flavors, colors, and textures. Companies such as The Burpease offer a variety of nutrient-rich, flavorful meals to engage your baby.
4. Make Mealtime Fun
Make mealtimes a sensory experience. Utilize colored plates, fun utensils, and goofy sound effects. Allow your baby to find the textures by hand to make dining an adventure.
5. Set a Routine
Babies love predictability. Try to feed them at the same time every day, establishing a pattern that informs them it's time to eat.
6. Don't Disturb
Although it's tempting to use a screen so they stay seated, it distracts them from the act of eating itself. Instead, use music, stories, or even tiny toys that maintain attention on the meal.
7. Be Persistent and Patient
Keep in mind that building a balanced relationship with food takes time. If they turn down an offered food, don't be discouraged. It may take 10-15 tries for the baby to take to a new flavor.
8. Lead by Example
Babies mimic what they see. Sit down and eat with your baby whenever possible so he or she can watch you savoring the same foods.
9. Monitor Growth, Not Just Intake
If you’re worried about your baby’s nutrition, focus more on their overall growth and energy levels rather than each meal. If they’re happy, active, and meeting milestones, they’re likely getting what they need.
10. When to Seek Help
If your baby consistently refuses food or shows signs of discomfort while eating, it might be a good idea to consult your pediatrician or a nutritionist for guidance.
Final Thoughts Every baby is different, and what suits one may not suit another. Trust yourself, be patient, and remember that this stage will pass. With a bit of persistence and a whole lot of love, your wee one will find their foodie groove eventually.
At The Burpease, we understand how mealtime can be boring for you at times and when your baby begins to get bored with his/her food. Therefore, we designed Pratham Aahaar, a healthy line of baby foods that comes in four flavors—Apple, Banana, Strawberry, and Mango—so that your baby will never have to eat the same thing twice! Goodbye mealtime hassles and hello healthy, happy little tummies!
