Parents share experiences and expert advice on picky eating in infants and toddlers
Category: Health
Many parents find themselves facing a common yet distressing challenge: their baby refuses to eat. This issue is especially concerning for those with little ones around 9 months old, as solid food becomes increasingly important for nutrition. As seen in a trending post on r/Mommit, which received over 1,000 upvotes and 300 comments, parents are sharing their struggles and seeking advice on this topic.
If your baby is around 9 months old and refusing to eat, you’re not alone. Many parents have experienced similar situations where their infants show little interest in food.
First and foremost, it’s important to consult your pediatrician if your baby is not eating well. As one Reddit user wisely pointed out, "Have you talked to his pediatrician? You might want to ask about getting an evaluation for feeding therapy". Pediatricians can provide guidance and assess whether there are any underlying health issues affecting your baby's appetite.
At around 9 months, babies should be getting a substantial amount of their nutrition from solid foods. By 12 months, it’s expected that most of their nutrition will come from solids. If your baby isn’t eating solids by this age, it’s worth discussing with your pediatrician. According to another parent, "In fact, at 9.5 months, your baby should be getting a considerable amount of his nutrition from solids and by 12 months it should be pretty much only from solids".
If your baby is showing resistance to certain foods, try experimenting with different textures. Some parents have found success by offering mashed foods. One parent mentioned, "Maybe that’d help? We did mashed potatoes/sweet potatoes with ground beef/turkey/chicken, mashed lentils or beans, mashed berries, steamed and mashed veggies like broccoli". Allowing your baby to explore various textures can make mealtime more engaging and less intimidating.
Encouraging your baby to self-feed can also help. One commenter shared their experience, saying, "Just pop that stuff in his mouth! Once he tried something a few times with my help he’d usually start going for it himself". This approach allows your baby to explore food at their own pace, which may increase their willingness to try new things.
Patience is key when it comes to feeding challenges. Many parents have noted that their babies eventually developed preferences and started eating more as they grew older. One parent recounted, "She started eating more around a year. A few months ago she ate anything we gave her. Now, at 18 months, she’s learned that preference is a thing and is ‘picky’. We’re just rolling with it". It’s important to remain flexible and understand that feeding habits can change over time.
Offering food multiple times a day can also help. One parent mentioned, "I offer 3-4 times per day. I've talked with her pediatrician about it but he says some kids are just slow and to be patient". Regular meal and snack times can help establish a routine and encourage your baby to try eating more often.
Lastly, it’s important to not stress too much about your baby’s eating habits. Many parents have accepted that their little ones may take time to warm up to solid foods. One parent humorously noted, "I've just accepted we're going to BF for 5 years and she won't be a good eater". Keeping a light-hearted attitude can make the process less stressful for both you and your baby.
Feeding challenges are a common part of parenthood, and it’s important to approach them with patience and support. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician for advice. They can provide valuable insights and reassurance as you navigate this phase.
As you work through these challenges, keep in mind that every baby is different. Some may take longer to develop eating habits than others, and that’s perfectly okay. The bottom line is to stay informed and be proactive in supporting your baby’s nutritional needs.
This article is grounded in a discussion trending on Reddit. Claims from the original post and comments may not reflect independently verified reporting.