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FEEDING ADVENTURES:
NOURISHING INFANTS AND YOUNG CHILDREN WITH LOVE AND LAUGHTER

By: Aly Diana

I think most of us are parents, grandparents, or have siblings who are parents. At some point, we need to learn about how to feed our little ones to help them grow and develop. While it may seem simple, being a responsible adult can be challenging. We may know some recommendations, like breastfeeding exclusively for six months and introducing solid foods at six months, but there are other practical suggestions we might not be aware of. Let’s learn together and give our little ones the best start in life. Remember, it’s important to give them our full attention and maintain eye contact during feeding to strengthen the bond between us.

Following evidence-based feeding recommendations is crucial for the healthy growth and development of our children. Breast milk provides complete nutrition for the first six months and helps create a strong bond between parent and child. It’s important to remember that most mothers can breastfeed, and seeking expert guidance can overcome any challenges. Please don’t give up without consulting an expert.

Introducing solids at around six months is another important recommendation. This complements breastfeeding and helps meet the nutritional needs of growing infants. It exposes them to new tastes and textures, supporting their oral motor skill development. As parents and grandparents, we have the opportunity to provide a diverse and nourishing diet that sets the stage for healthy eating habits.

Promoting self-feeding is a valuable practice that fosters our child’s development and independence, and it can start as early as nine months. Contrary to some misconceptions, self-feeding does not reduce the intake of nutritious food or increase the risk of choking when introduced appropriately and under supervision. In fact, it allows children to explore different textures and flavors, encouraging acceptance of a wide range of nutritious foods. Encouraging self-feeding provides numerous benefits, including fostering independence, enhancing fine motor skills, promoting a varied and nutritious diet, and establishing a positive mealtime experience for both child and parents.

During mealtime, it is important to create a happy and relaxed atmosphere. Trusting our children’s natural hunger cues and avoiding pressuring them to eat beyond their needs is crucial. As long as they are gaining weight, staying active, and appearing healthy, they are likely receiving sufficient nourishment. It is best to avoid engaging in battles over unfinished food and resisting the temptation to offer unhealthy options. By consistently offering food and allowing children to listen to their bodies, we can help them develop a healthy relationship with food. Less pressure during mealtime results in less stress for both parents/caregivers and children, which is beneficial for everyone involved.

When it comes to bottle feeding, it’s worth noting that infants who are exclusively breastfed and have their mothers available do not typically require bottles. However, in certain situations where bottle feeding becomes necessary, it’s important to be mindful of best practices. One practice to avoid is letting infants fall asleep with a bottle, especially if it contains milk or sugary liquids. Prolonged exposure to these liquids can increase the risk of tooth decay. Responsible bottle-feeding techniques, such as holding the infant during feeding and avoiding prop-ping the bottle, are important to ensure their safety and oral health. As the children reach one year of age, it is advisable to transition them away from bottle feeding and introduce a cup. This promotes their oral and overall development, as well as independence.

Remember, every child is unique. If you’re unsure, seek help. Consulting healthcare professionals for personalized advice is always recommended. Resources like the UNICEF Parenting website provide evidence-based guidance on feeding practices, child development, health, and building nurturing relationships, which can make the learning process easier.

Let’s embark on these feeding adventures together, filled with love and laughter, and create a nurturing environment where our little ones can thrive and grow into healthy individuals. This knowledge can also help us spread the word and guide others who may have misconceptions or misinformation.

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