Emily hated solids. She would either just play with her food, spit it out right away, or throw it on the floor. She shrieked whenever a spoon came near her mouth. I tried more than a few techniques to end her aversion to solid food and the following worked the best for me.
EXPECT THE MESS AND ROLL WITH IT
I realized that Emily hated it when I wiped her face while she was eating. Now I just accept that there will be avocado in her hair and banana in her ears and I just give her a quick washdown and outfit change after she has finished eating.
LET HER WALK AROUND WITH FOOD
I noticed that Emily ate more and even tried new food items when she was out of her high chair. Yes, this made for a messy house while I tried this strategy but I was delighted when she developed a love for steamed broccoli and carrots. Once she became a more adventurous eater, she didn't mind being in the high chair as much.
MISCELLANEOUS TIPS
- Offer larger chunks of food as your baby might prefer that over small bites.
- She might not be hungry when you decide to feed her. Try again in 15-30 minutes.
- Let her feed herself. Around 9 months, some babies refuse to be spoon fed. Offer a variety of finger foods.
- Timing is everything. Some babies hate eating right before or right after they poop. Some babies don't want to eat right after they wake up. You know your baby best so pay attention to her behavior and adjust accordingly.
Happy feeding!
