How can I encourage my baby to try new foods?

Answer from Dr Nancy Tan:

One of the most common stresses for a parent is encouraging their children to try new foods or dealing with a fussy eater, however there are some tips that can help the process more painless for you and your child.

1. Limit pre-meal snacks

If your baby is hungry, he or she is going to be more open to eating or trying new foods.

2. Put your best foot forward

Wait until your baby is well rested, happy and healthy. A tired, cranky or sick baby is not likely to be open to trying new foods.

3. Plan your meals

Try and incorporate one new food into each meal. If your baby is eating other food that they are already familiar with or foods that they like, he or she will be less likely to reject something unfamiliar.

4. Never give up

Even as adults our taste buds change and over time, you might find yourself enjoying a food that you once disliked. It’s the same principal for babies, even if they don’t like a new food the first time, keep trying. You might even like to try presenting it in a different way such as with a different condiment or sauce.

5. Keep the focus

Babies and young children are easily distracted so try and keep mealtimes calm and quiet with limited television, toys and other disruptions.

6. Variety of the spice of life

If your child has become a fussy eater unexpectedly, perhaps he or she has become tired of their regular diet. Try and introduce some new foods to encourage variety.

7. Copy cat

Babies love to imitate their parents so you eat the food too. When baby sees you enjoying your dinner, he or she is more likely to enjoy it with you.

8. Keep it positive

If your baby makes a face when you’re feeding him, don’t stop. It doesn’t mean that he or she doesn’t like the taste; it could just be the reaction to a new sensation or texture. In addition, if your feeding your baby a food that you don’t like make sure you don’t let it show on your face. Keep your facial expressions positive.

9. Get involved

Get your baby involved in the process. Allow them to feel the food in their hands and get used to the texture. Also, if your baby would like to hold the spoon, give them their own spoon.

10. Look for alternatives

There may be days when your baby refuses to eat solid foods. If this is the case, don’t force the issue and make meal times symbolic of a struggle. If you’re worried about your baby being hungry, an infant formula can provide a convenient solution and you can try again with solid foods the next day.

Answered by: Dr Nancy Tan, SBCC Baby and Child Clinic

About Dr Nancy Tan:

Dr Nancy Tan is a Consultant Paediatrician with more than 16 years of experience in the care of children, especially with chronic liver and gut diseases. Trained in the Paediatric Liver Centre, King’s College London, Dr Tan currently works at SBCC Baby & Child Clinic at Gleneagles Medical Centre, and is also a visiting consultant to the KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital.

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theAsianparent

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