#asktheexpert hello my toddlers are not chewing food

Question

Accepted Answer

Teaching a toddler to chew food and eat independently is a gradual process that requires patience and encouragement. Here are some tips to help your toddler develop chewing skills and foster independence:

1. **Start with Soft Foods:**
   - Begin with soft and easily chewable foods, such as cooked vegetables, ripe fruits, and well-cooked pasta. Gradually introduce foods with different textures.

2. **Proper Bite Sizes:**
   - Cut food into small, bite-sized pieces to make it easier for your toddler to manage. This also reduces the risk of choking.

3. **Model Chewing:**
   - Demonstrate how to chew food by exaggerating your own chewing motions. Use positive language to describe the process.

4. **Encourage Chewing Movements:**
   - Prompt your toddler to mimic chewing movements by opening and closing their mouth. You can make it a fun game to encourage participation.

5. **Mix Textures:**
   - Combine different textures in a single meal. For example, you can include a mix of soft fruits, crunchy vegetables, and grains to provide a variety of chewing experiences.

6. **Gradual Transition:**
   - If your toddler is used to purees, gradually introduce slightly textured foods. Increase the texture over time to help them adjust to chewing.

7. **Praise and Positive Reinforcement:**
   - Offer praise and positive reinforcement when your toddler chews and eats independently. Celebrate small successes to boost their confidence.

8. **Provide Opportunities to Feed Themselves:**
   - Allow your toddler to feed themselves using utensils. This encourages hand-eye coordination and helps develop fine motor skills.

9. **Create a Positive Mealtime Environment:**
   - Make mealtimes enjoyable by creating a positive atmosphere. Sit together as a family, engage in conversation, and make the experience pleasant.

10. **Be Patient:**
    - Understand that learning to chew and eat independently is a process. Be patient, and avoid putting too much pressure on your toddler.

If you have concerns about your toddler's chewing skills or eating habits, consult with your pediatrician. They can provide guidance based on your child's individual needs and development.