Starting Solids...

So just shy of 5 months old (11/28), we gave Maddie her first taste of cereal. We have a ped appointment in a few weeks and at the last appointment, the doctor said that before we see her next, we should try out solids.

Its recommended to give a new food in the daytime, and not night in case there are allegies, you would be dealing with it in the daytime instead of while they are sleeping. I also wanted Jae to be there for her first time...so, of course I had to start on a Sunday since he works 6 days of the week. On this particular Sunday, I planned to stay home but jae wanted to take Maddie out to my grandmas. So, we lugged all the feeding stuff into Queens. I wouldn't recommend this...I really wanted her to be home, but it was nice that my grandma could witness it.

We started with oatmeal and as soon as I put the spoon to her face, she opened her mouth. Good start. We were feeding her in her Bumbo, which she actually doesn't like, so I knew the time she would be stting would be limited. I thought maybe the food would distract her though but after a few more bites, she started crying. I ended the session right there.

LAter that night, we went home and I tried again before bedtime. The highchair was set up and we used that. She loves this seat! The feeding session was again, shortlived, since it was close to her bedtime and she was a bit cranky.

The next day, I tried again and she would stick her thumb in after each bite to help her swallow. I read that when they are young, this is what they do since sucking is the only way they know how to eat.

It's been 5 days so far and she still puts her fingers or thumb in her mouth. They are in there constantly, actually. Any bit of food on her fingers, she tries to suck off. Its kind of hard to get a spoon in her mouth at all. I am torn between being worried and understanding that she is still a bit young and will learn eventually.

She knows to open her mouth, but doesnt quite know to close it over the spoon. She also deosnt know how to slurp the food off the spoon. (all normal). I only give her about a teaspoon or so of food but she will finish it. I am only doing once a day right now. Before I started this, I consulted my cousin who told me not to be too eager to start this cuz its a lot more work. She was right... theres a lot more prep and cleaning involved now. and right before she eats, I have pump like 3 teaspoons worth of milk to mix with her cereal. so annoying. and its VERY messy. but I really do enjoy watching her hit this milestone. She also really likes the highchair, so its great. After shes done eating, she will sit there and play while I wash dishes or clean up.

I think she is still a bit young, but I think with enough practice she will really like eating.

Next week I will be feeding her a barley/oatmeal mix (twice a day) and the week after, I will start with carrots. I do want to try a veggie before I see the ped in case I have any questions.

Shes growing up so fast!