Can teething lead to food rejection?
My 8mos old just got his first two teeth to break through the surface. We started him on solids 2 months ago and were pretty successful. Now, he cries if I try to put him in the high chair and purses his lips when I try to feed him. He nurses enthusiastically so I don't think he's lacking in nutrients or food.
Is the rejection of eating normal at this stage? Is it related to the teething?
1 Answers
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We had a very similar experience with our daughter at this age, but I didn't particularly think it was related to teething.
I think as kids grow and mature, they become more aware of feeding, and of their ability to "give input" in the situation. With our daughter, the issue was that she really didn't want to be fed with a spoon. She would cry and balk and squiggle and wiggle if we tried to feed her. But, if she was given something she could eat herself with her hands (cheerios, etc.) then she would gobble them right up and be very happy.
It also seemed to depend on who was doing the feeding. My personal feeling was that she had an association between Mom & Milk, and that meant that Dad had a higher success with spoon feedings.
Also, texture seems to be really important to her. Are you mixing in any baby rice cereal or baby oatmeal? At that age, our daughter would hardly eat anything unless it was the consistency of thick oatmeal, then she'd gobble it right up.
So, my advice is: Expreriment! I bet you'll find something that works. As he grows & changes, his tastes, likes & dislikes will change, as will his communication, so what is an utter failure today may be a huge success tomorrow. Don't give up! :)
He took a few spoonfuls yesterday while playing at Boston Market until he figured out he was eating. This morning, he slurped some off my finger but that didn't last long. We're not yet at the cheerio stage but I'm checking other options. I know not to give up but it's still frustrating.
- Alana, Dec 16, 2009