Parental Experiences with Solid Food Introduction - A Qualitative Analysis of the Feeding Approach

The objective of this study is to describe parental experiences with solid food introduction (SFI), with a focus on the overall decision-making process related to selecting feeding approach.

A qualitative study was conducted analyzing semi-structured interviews of English-speaking parents of 8-13-month-old infants recruited from multiple outpatient clinics in Chicago, Illinois and surrounding areas. Parents of infants with medical conditions influencing SFI or those involved in other feeding-related studies were excluded. The interview questions were informed by a modified version of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TBP) and explored the factors guiding SFI practices. Interview themes were refined through an iterative discussion until consensus was reached amongst the researchers.

49 parents were interviewed, with participants being primarily mothers (92%). Of these, 43% were White, 29% were Black, 29% were Hispanic/Latinx, 8% were Asian, and 2% were Native American. 3 themes and 2 subthemes on the feeding approach were applied from the analysis including 1) feeding along a continuum, 1.1) navigating infant preferences and caregiver circumstances, 1.2) situational adaptation, 2) family and cultural influences, and 3) variable guidance based on sources of information.

While baby-led weaning and parent-led feeding are often viewed as contrasting approaches, most participants described implementing elements of both, adapting practices to suit their family's needs in different circumstances. Our findings highlight the importance of supporting personalized nutritional recommendations, rather than promoting a one-size-fits all method.