So i know this discussed quite frequently on here.. But, but... I am feeling v confused about the best approach to my DD's new food independence. My family has a history of eating disorders, and i think that contributes to my anxiety.
Long story short: DD was spoon fed when weaned (and generally ate very well, heartily), and carried on wanting to be spoon fed until about a week ago (so quite late in my view). Suddenly she would just turn her head away from the spoon. This did also coincide with her teething her fangs, which is bothering her a lot. After a day of us both getting a bit cross with each other (i didn't realise she was teething :(( I decided to stop spoon feeding all together, bought her a new "special" plate, spoon and fork set etc, and just gave her a little selection of food to have a go at. She has always been great in restaurants at eating off our plates etc.
So fine. Seemed to work. But now she is becoming very picky again. Yesterday - ate all her buttered carrots, sweetcorn etc, today wouldn't touch either and demanded "CHEESE!" repeatedly. I gave her cheese and some fish, which she enjoyed. But I felt like I was running around making different things until she decided she wanted something. One day she loves something, 2 days later she won't even try it. What am I supposed to do?
I KNOW this is normal. I am not criticising her (that is why I posted this in "parenting" not "behaviour/development"). And i know I am overreacting. But as a (completely) recovered bulimic, daughter of an anorexic (not really recovered) I am PARANOID about getting it wrong/making her feel weird about food etcetcetc. So I find myself with tears in my eyes (secretly when she is not in the room) at the prospect of her refusing food.
Anyway. I guess I need a little hand holding, I know I am being silly :(