Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices and the Factors That Influence Them: a Qualitative Study

Background: Early child feeding is important for healthy growth and forming positive eating behaviors.

Methods: This qualitative study sought to describe early childhood feeding behaviors, challenges, and opportunities through four focus group discussions with a diverse group of mothers of at least one child under two years or pregnant with their first child.

Results: Although providing healthy foods was a priority, feeding behaviors reflected the mothers' partial understanding of infant and child nutrition. Mothers sought guidance on early child feeding from several sources, including in-person and virtual relationships but made decisions based largely on their own instincts. Participants consulted clinicians the least often, and mothers often felt frustrated by strict guidelines and negative messaging. Mothers were most receptive to suggestions when they felt supported and valued in the decision-making process.

Conclusions: In order to help mothers provide the best nutrition for their young children, clinicians should use positive tones, provide flexibility when possible, and work to create open lines of communication with parents.