Beginning of the Chew!
- Nicole Wernert
- Aug 17, 2023
- 2 min read
As a parent on the journey of introducing your child to the world of solid foods, it's not only important to focus on the initial stages of purees but also to recognize the exciting transition to chewing. The early signs of chewing in an infant can be both fascinating and heartwarming. As you observe your little one's eating habits, keep an eye out for subtle cues that indicate the beginning of this crucial milestone.
Around the age of 6 to 9 months, many infants begin to demonstrate a rudimentary chew pattern as they explore new textures and flavors. This marks an exciting phase in their development, showcasing their growing oral motor skills and readiness for a more varied diet.
One of the first signs you might notice is a change in the movement of your baby's tongue. Instead of the previous sucking motion used for purees, you might observe a more deliberate up-and-down or side-to-side motion as they manipulate the food in their mouth. This tongue movement demonstrates their growing ability to reposition the food for further breakdown before swallowing.
Another telltale sign of emerging chewing skills is the way your infant handles different textures. You might observe them using their gums to mash or grind down soft foods, displaying a newfound ability to manipulate the food within their mouth. This action reflects the development of the jaw muscles required for more advanced chewing.
Additionally, keep an ear out for changes in the sounds your baby makes during mealtime. The transition to chewing often accompanies a shift in the noises they produce. While sucking sounds are prevalent during the puree phase, you might notice more smacking or clicking noises as they experiment with moving food around in their mouth.
It's important to remember that each baby progresses at their own pace, and the beginning of chewing might manifest differently in different children. Patience and attentive observation are key as you witness these exciting milestones. Celebrate every small achievement and support your child's exploration of textures and movements as they embark on their journey towards becoming confident and competent eaters.
Incorporating these observations into your feeding routine not only helps you appreciate your child's growth but also assists in adapting your approach to their evolving needs. By being attuned to these signs, you can provide the necessary guidance and support to nurture your infant's oral motor skills and facilitate their successful transition to a wide range of foods in the future.
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