So, I've figured out one way to keep cranky babies eating instead of crying during feeding: give them each a small rubber duck. Between bites, they can suck on its head or bang it against their high chair tray. This seems to calm them down, and distracts them enough that they're willing to absently open their mouths for those lovin' spoonfuls of cereal or veggies from time to time. And strictly speaking, I suppose, it doesn't have to be a duck. Probably any small toy or non-choking-hazard object will do. I've also had success giving them toddler feeding spoons. They can't quite get the hang of actually feeding themselves with them yet -- I tried, suction bowls and all -- but they seem to enjoy sucking on them and batting them around and dropping them on the floor.
The larger issue here, though, is that I think they're getting impatient with being fed. They obviously like to be able to do something with their hands and feel like they're an active part of the feeding process. (I'm not exactly sure how they think the rubber ducks play into this, but whatever works....) They are increasingly enthusiastic about eating things with their hands, so I fear I'm going to have to start incorporating more finger foods (other than Cheerios and crackers) into their meals. I say "fear" because this requires a change from the last four months' routine of make-ahead purees, powdered ceral from a box, and yogurt -- a routine we've got down pat. We fear change.
But here's what I'm thinking we can start with: soft, cooked chunks and cubes of the veggies they already eat (squash, sweet potatoes, carrots, peas, etc.), pieces of banana and avocado, maybe some pasta (the little wheels? fusilli? what works?), scrambled or boiled egg yolks (we've tried this, and they like it OK), bits of tofu (ditto). And maybe they could handle some ground turkey or chicken. I'm feeling less terrified about giving them meat lately. The whole cat food thing really paved the way, I guess. But I'm sure you folks have got plenty of other fabulous ideas, so bring 'em on. Please!
Not digging the peas and carrots, Mom. Photo by Heidi Cohen.
