Question

A mother is concerned because her 14-month-old son, who had a big appetite when breast-feeding a few months ago, seems uninterested in eating solid food. She still breast-feeds him daily, but is thinking of weaning him soon. How should the nurse respond to this mother?

A)""It is normal for toddlers to lose their appetites; try weaning him all at once so that he will be more interested in the solid food."
B)""It is normal for toddlers to lose their appetites; try starting him with just a tablespoonful of food on his plate."
C)""It is not normal for toddlers to lose their appetites; have him tested for a gastrointestinal condition."
D)""It is not normal for toddlers to lose their appetites; spoon feed him yourself to make sure he gets proper nutrition."

Answer 1

It is normal for toddlers to show varying interest in solid food during weaning. Starting with a small amount of solid food on their plate can encourage them to eat while considering their developmental need for autonomy.

Step-by-step explanation:

Toddler Appetite and Weaning

A mother is concerned about her 14-month-old son's decreased interest in solid food while she is still breastfeeding and considering weaning. The appropriate response to her is option B: "It is normal for toddlers to lose their appetites; try starting him with just a tablespoonful of food on his plate." This answer acknowledges the common variations in a toddler's appetite and suggests a gentle approach without causing alarm or suggesting there is a health concern without evidence. Infants and toddlers experience periods of variable appetite, especially during transitions such as weaning or introducing new foods.

It is also worth noting that infants and toddlers go through various developmental stages that can affect their eating habits. The principle of autonomy, a key developmental stage for toddlers, might make them more selective and assertive about their food choices and eating habits, as part of their normal growth and exploration of independence.