Food Fight

Merrick has been eating solids for about 4 months now, and up until recently he's done great! The last couple weeks, however, he has become very particular...he's become aware of color, texture and flavor and he has begun to flat out deny certain foods.

Being the overly cautious, overly conservative mother that I am, I became quite stressed that he wasn't getting enough to eat. I would get ready to feed him, he'd purse his lips tight, and I would persist. Eventually he'll open his mouth! He has to open his mouth or he'll starve! Next bite, I am dodging flailing, chubby little hands trying to keep me away from his mouth as I aim for the target. Food goes everywhere, mommy's frustrated because he won't eat, Merrick's frustrated because I'm trying to make him eat. I didn't know what I was going to do!

Well, I dusted off a book recommended to me that discusses children's eating habits, behaviors, etc. In the book, the author stresses the importance that you let the child lead in terms of how much they want to eat, and to never force or coerce feeding, as it will only backfire in the end and could cause eating issues later in life. It had the AUDACITY to suggest that I sit back in my chair, bring the spoon halfway between us and let HIM come to the spoon. When he refused, it meant he was no longer hungry. Hmppphh...I don't think I'm buying into this. But I had nothing to lose for trying.

Wouldn't you know....it worked like a CHARM!! Our little guy is stubborn - he wants to eat on his terms and, imagine this, he does not appreciate someone looming over him trying to shove a spoonful of food down his throat! Things have been going MUCH better...there are certain foods he doesn't seem to care for, like green vegetables (he LOVES carrots, squash, etc). But we'll keep trying on the green veggies, being not too pushy, and encouraging him to continue to try new things.

It's not just Merrick that's learning his way in the world...we are learning how to be his parents. I'm sure it's a lifelong lesson - the most challenging thing we've done, but by far the most worthwhile!