Take the Pressure out of Feeding Times

The survey of 1,000 UK parents with children under the age of three revealed that while the majority (79%) find parenting more rewarding than expected, a similar number (70%) also feel more pressure than they had anticipated. With more than 60% felt more anxious, judged, guilty and lonely.

Over half of parents reported they are generally confident with feeding their little ones, with 63% enjoying the time they spend feeding their baby. However, weaning seems to cause concern, with more than a third of parents feeling very anxious about moving their baby onto this next stage of feeding.

A recent survey of healthcare professionals suggests that there could be significantly higher concern behind parents' apparent confidence, with almost double the number of health visitors, GPs and pharmacists noting levels of parental anxiety around weaning in comparison to parents (68%).

In a world of Facebook, Instagram and a host of mum-forums, comparisons and advice from other parents can provide both validation and anxieties, with over one third of parents reporting they often put more value on the feeding advice they received online than from healthcare professionals.

To provide support at this amazing - yet challenging time - the ITF have developed the Ten Steps for Feeding Babies (0-12 months) - practical tips, and advice for parents and carers to cater for babies' nutritional milestones and help provide positive support throughout their first year of life.

For more information about the Ten Steps for Feeding Babies (0-12 months) or to download your own copy of the Ten Steps guide, please visit: www.infantandtoddlerforum.org You can also follow the ITF on social media via @InfTodForum or www.facebook.com/InfantandToddlerForum