Articles from our resource area experts.

Have a question? Try asking one of our Experts

Your Baby is in Control of How Much Baby Food He Eats

Last Updated: September 27, 2008 Related resource areas: Parenting

Parenting Tips for Your 11 Month Old Baby

Worrying about what your baby eats, or does not eat, will only make both of you nervous. Don’t expect your baby to clean his plate or to eat "just one more mouthful." Trust him to be the best judge of how much to eat.

As your baby moves around to explore his world, he will become more independent. He may be eager to try out this new independence by insisting on feeding himself. Or he may be a little scared of his new abilities and may cling to you at mealtimes. He may even refuse to hold his cup or spoon and demand to be fed.

Whether your baby is a clinger or a self-feeder, try to be calm and patient. It will pay off in fewer feeding problems now and in the future.

Learn more about Your 11 Month Old Baby from Just In Time Parenting. You can also go to our Resource Links for additional information on child care and development.

Note to Parents: When reading this newsletter, remember: Every baby is different. Children may do things earlier or later than described here. This newsletter gives equal space and time to both sexes. If he or she is used, we are talking about all babies.
References: These materials were adapted by authors from Extension Just in Time Parenting Newsletters in California, Delaware, Georgia, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Tennessee, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, and Wisconsin.