For new moms on the go, nursing can be a challenge. Trying to balance a busy lifestyle while breast feeding, or having a picky eater, can be stressful to parents and caregivers, but Metro EHS Pediatric Therapy can step in with ways to help. “I would say get familiar with your breast pump early on, even before you have the baby,” said Casey Callahan, Occupational Therapist, and Certified Breast-Feeding Specialist at Metro EHS. She said, being able to pump milk can help keep a healthy supply while the mom is working - or away from the baby. She also said, don’t be afraid to introduce a bottle. “A lot of people say don’t introduce it, but I say go ahead and introduce the bottle right away, and before the 3-month mark.” She said this will not lessen the mom’s milk supply, and if parents have any concerns or questions, consult with a lactation nurse.
When it comes to older children, experts say, there are many reasons why a child can be a “picky” eater, as well there are red flags that could cause for concern. Jessica Hunt, an Occupational Therapist with Metro EHS said, parents and caregivers should watch out for these signs:
- If a child is not eating whole food groups. (If they are refusing all meats, fruits, and vegetables.)
- If a child needs an extended time to eat. (Mealtimes should be 20-30 minutes.)
- If you have to do something special to get them to eat. (Needing to distract them in order for the child to eat.)
Hunt said any of the above should be discussed with a pediatrician, and if there’s a need for services to help with the feeding process, they provide those services at Metro EHS.
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