Recognizing the Red Flags of Feeding Difficulties: 4/6 – 36 mo.

Recognizing the Red Flags of Feeding Difficulties in Infants (4/6 – 36 mo.)

Feeding your newborn is a precious and essential part of parenthood. Yet, it can also become a source of concern when your baby exhibits signs of feeding difficulties. Awareness of these ‘red flags’ can help you seek timely intervention and support.

Red Flags Checklist: Here are key red flags to watch for in children aged 4 to 36 months:

Cries Around Mealtime:

Persistent crying during or around mealtime may signal discomfort or challenges.

Gagging and Choking When Eating:

Pay attention if your child frequently gags or chokes during meals.

Difficulty Chewing:

If your child struggles with chewing food properly, it could indicate oral motor difficulties.

Picky Eater or Eats Only Certain Textures:

Limited food preferences or a strong aversion to certain textures might indicate sensory issues.

Does Not Eat Independently:

Lack of interest or ability to eat independently may be a developmental concern.

Difficulty Transitioning Off the Bottle or Off Formula:

Resistance to transitioning from bottle feeding or formula might point to underlying issues.

Overstuffs Mouth with Food:

Be cautious if your child consistently overfills their mouth while eating.

Takes Too Long to Eat:

Prolonged meal times may suggest challenges in the eating process.

Difficulty Gaining Weight:

Slow or inadequate weight gain can be a red flag for feeding difficulties.

History of Reflux:

A history of reflux may impact your child’s comfort during meals.

Suspected or History of Tongue or Lip Tie:

Keep in mind any suspected or previously diagnosed tongue or lip tie.

If you observe one or more of these red flags in your child’s feeding behavior, seeking professional help can make a significant difference. At Little Eaters and Talkers, our team of specialists is dedicated to identifying and addressing feeding difficulties in toddlers and preschoolers. Early intervention can pave the way for improved eating habits, speech development, and overall well-being for your child.

Remember, your proactive approach today can shape a healthier and more enjoyable feeding journey for your child tomorrow.

Contact Little Eaters and Talkers for Baby Led Weaning Support

At Little Eaters and Talkers, we understand the importance of proper feeding and speech development in children. That’s why we offer support for parents interested in trying out baby-led weaning (BLW) with their little ones. Our team of experts can provide guidance on how to safely and effectively introduce solid foods to your baby through BLW, as well as address any concerns or challenges that may arise.

We also offer Difficulty with Bottle-Feeding, Tongue Tie Complications, Oral Aversion, Introduction to Solids, Picky Eating Habits, and Challenges in Weight Gain. Our personalized approach aims to not only address feeding difficulties but also promote a positive and enjoyable feeding experience for both parents and children.

Jean Hawney, our experienced pediatric bilingual speech language pathologist, has over 12 years of experience working with children and adults with feeding and communication challenges. She is certified in Tethered Oral Tissues (TOTS), Breastfeeding, and Videofluoroscopic Swallow Studies, among others.

Contact us today at (832)304-3506 or info@thelittleeaters.com. Let’s work together towards a happy, healthy, and nourished future for your little one.