Hi my baby is 15 months old, he doesn’t chew much while eating. Also screen addicted without watching YouTube videos doesn’t eat. What should I do ?

A. Dealing with a 15-month-old who doesn't chew much while eating and is screen-addicted can be challenging. Here are some tips to address these issues: ### For Chewing and Eating: 1. **Offer Age-Appropriate Foods:** Provide foods that are easy to chew and swallow, such as soft fruits (like bananas or cooked apples), well-cooked vegetables (like carrots or peas), and finely chopped or shredded meats. 2. **Encourage Self-Feeding:** Offer finger foods that your child can hold and feed themselves, which can encourage chewing and independence. 3. **Model Chewing:** Eat meals together as a family, and demonstrate chewing behavior. Your child may imitate you and learn proper chewing techniques. 4. **Gradual Introduction of Textures:** Introduce a variety of textures gradually. Start with softer foods and gradually move to more challenging textures as your child becomes more comfortable with chewing. 5. **Limit Distractions:** Create a calm and distraction-free environment during mealtimes. Minimize noise and avoid having screens or toys at the table. 6. **Be Patient:** It's common for toddlers to take time to develop chewing skills. Offer encouragement and praise for efforts to chew and eat independently. ### Addressing Screen Addiction: 1. **Set Limits:** Establish clear limits on screen time. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends avoiding screens for children under 18 months, except for video chatting. 2. **Offer Alternatives:** Provide stimulating and age-appropriate activities that do not involve screens, such as reading books, playing with toys, or outdoor play. 3. **Be Consistent:** Stick to the screen time limits you set consistently, even if it initially leads to protests or resistance. 4. **Lead by Example:** Limit your own screen time and engage in activities that encourage interaction and play with your child. 5. **Create Routine:** Establish a predictable daily routine that includes structured meal and play times, which can help reduce reliance on screens for entertainment. 6. **Consult with a Pediatrician:** If your child's screen addiction significantly impacts eating habits or behavior, seek guidance from a pediatrician or child development specialist for personalized advice. By gradually implementing these strategies, you can help encourage healthier eating habits and reduce screen dependence in your 15-month-old child.