It's a kitchen nightmare, oh no it's not – it's your average mealtime!
Some meals go smoothly, and some don't; your baby needs lots of practice to master feeding themselves. The reality is that some days will be messier than others. And that’s ok.
Independent eating can lead to messy mealtimes
You may face some new experiences at mealtimes now your baby is gaining more control of their hands and a degree of autonomy.
When things are difficult, there are no absolutes to follow. The way you respond might differ depending on the time of day, season and what has already happened that day. Your baby may need different responses at various times. Trying to understand your baby's needs can be the secret to how to best support them during difficult mealtimes.
Food refusals
If your baby occasionally chooses not to eat, don't worry too much, it's to be expected. It is developmentally normal for babies not to always want food, so try as best you can to listen to their refusals. During these times, your baby probably needs soothing and comforting.
Your baby is becoming increasingly socially and emotionally aware; every moment of your baby's day contributes to how they understand the world. Responding to your baby with care, emotional reassurance and a calming presence, supports their understanding of healthy connections and positive relationships.
Flying food (and other things)
Your baby is developing their fine motor skills and learning to control their movements. They will be exploring the act of throwing and sometimes throwing food can be a playful way of interacting with you.
If your baby starts to throw food out of frustration, they may need your nurturing care. Their natural curiosity and high energy can bring big emotions and they rely on you to support them through these.
Whatever the motive, your baby is communicating their mood in the only way they can at that moment. Try to remember to give them lots of praise when they do use their hands to eat or when they hold their spoon.
I can do it – no I can’t
As they become more able to feed themselves, they may happily put their hands into action and eat away. Although on other days, they might just want you to feed them.
As best as possible, go with the flow. It won’t be long before your baby can feed independently and these experiences will be memories, so for now follow your baby’s needs.
Need more inspiration? Listen to our children's nutrition podcast episode with Lucy Upton
The Children's Dietitian chats to Jennie and Alistair about down to earth, do-able ways to avoid stress at mealtimes.