Baby eats everything… But only from other people!

It's understandable to feel frustrated when Baby absolutely refuses to taste what you've lovingly prepared. And even more so if you know that at the babysitter's, they gobble down their bowl in one gulp! Here are some tips from parents to help Baby happily accept a varied diet… at home too!

Am I a bad mother?

If you were hesitant to talk about it for fear of being judged ("If Baby eats well everywhere except at my house, it's because I'm a terrible cook! Boohoo!"), rest assured, there are plenty of forums full of frustrated mothers sharing their experiences. For example: "The other day, when I arrived at my daughter's childminder's, I told her, 'I tried to get her to eat tomato yesterday, just so you know, she doesn't like it.' She replied that she had given it to her and it had gone very well!" Or: "Mine never eats anything, he's very picky about anything other than milk, while the childminder tells me that at her house, he eats perfectly. It's really frustrating..."

So no, of course you're not a bad mother! (And if you still doubt your cooking skills, try one of our recipes !) ;-)

At friends' houses, with the nanny, grandparents... What's the difference with home?

What changes "at other people's houses" is not necessarily the Baby's food itself, but also the time of day, the atmosphere, the dishes used, the time available, the people at the table at the same time, the presence of other children, the jovial atmosphere, the way in which the Baby is offered his meal, spoken to, etc.

The presence of other children, especially if they are a little older, is often very stimulating. Babies love to imitate and will let themselves be drawn in, especially if they see that the others seem to be having a great time.

Another determining factor is... your absence! Yes, food can be a way for Mom to put pressure on her, a catalyst for her moods ("Mom, I'm sulking because you left me with the babysitter"). But don't start feeling guilty!

Quick tips from parents to help your baby enjoy your meal

• Ask the nanny specifically what Baby eats (ingredients) and how she cooks it. You might discover that what she calls "fish and potato mash" is actually pieces of salted French fries blended with breaded fish (and you'll understand why Baby won't eat your steamed cod fillet at home!), or she'll give you some helpful ideas and tips for preparation (seasoning with herbs, for example) or presentation. On the Good Goût blog, you'll find ideas for making Baby's broccoli into a smoothie or for adding citrus fruits to Baby's meals .
• Also ask what time Baby eats exactly. Because if your nanny picks up other children from school at lunchtime, everyone might eat later, and therefore Baby might be ravenous! In that case, try adjusting the start time of your meal at home.
• Set the record straight as soon as possible: eating will help Baby grow up healthy, it's for their own good! (Eating isn't about pleasing Mom!). Communicate, explain, and reassure them...
• Baby loves being around others! Don't hesitate to feed them at the same time as the rest of the family. Give Baby some time and attention, relax... :-)