Fussy Eaters

The best advice for parents of fussy eaters is to adopt the relaxed approach especially if baby is healthy and happy. If in doubt, seek the advice of your Doctor or Pediatrician.

However, for most healthy babies, not wanting to eat occasionally is of no cause for concern.

Some signs are:

• A healthy baby will turn his head away or put his head down on the table when he has had enough to eat.

• Loving persistence in offering a variety of age-appropriate healthy foods in small portions will ensure his nutritional requirements are met.
• Remove the food away without fuss. Do not force him to eat. As Adults do not like to be forced into eating either, your child will ask for more if he needs it.
• Food and Food Time are meant to be enjoyed.
• Be aware also that some foods can cause allergic reactions and the most common food allergies are: eggs, seafood, nuts and milk.
• Hard foods such as nuts, carrots, celery can be a choking hazard to small children and babies. Avoid giving small children hard foods and make sure they sit up when eating any kind of foods. I have heard of a small child choking with dire results on celery (a hard food not recommended for this age) in a child care center as the child was allowed to lie down whilst eating (the most unsafe position). The safest position for eating is the sitting position for eating solids.
• Do not give supplements such as iron without first consulting with your doctor as it could be poisonous for baby. As always, it pays to check with your local doctor.