Irrational fear of baby choking? Should I feed chewable foods?

Question

My pediatrician said it was ok for my baby (who will be 6 months in a week) to start eating what he called “finger foods” which is basically Mac and cheese and other foods he will have to chew on a little. 
I don’t know if I’m being paranoid but I’m SO nervous about giving him food he could potentially choke on, my pediatrician said it’s good for his mental and physical development but I still feel like he isn’t ready. 
Have any of you guys tried this yet? Do you recommend it? He is reaching for my food and seems curious

Answer

If you're fearful, then start with foods you're comfortable with! Bananas, purees, potato, etc. There's no reason to do anything you don't think your baby is ready for. You know him better than anyone.

Answer

Take an infant choking and cpr course to help you feel more confident in general, mama.
I do understand the worry though, we are doing baby led weaning where purées are skipped altogether. I’m a nervous wreck AND I did this before with my first child 7 years ago. 😅
The AAP has said that there is no increased risk of choking with BLW over purées when followed safely (avoiding choking hazard foods.) if that gives you any reassurance.

Answer

Just remember this:  actual choking is 100% silent. Gagging is a reflex when food goes too far back in their throat and it's a good thing when they do that. If your baby is choking she will not be coughing or doing anything, you will literally hear nothing. Maybe that'll ease your mind. But as a nurse I recommend learning CPR for infants and toddlers. Babies have a great gag reflex so try not to worry and if you're doing appropriate foods you should have nothing to worry about! 😁

Answer

My pediatrician wants us starting with stage-one purees

Answer

My baby eats all kinds of finger foods, although nothing as small as macaroni. I cut things into long strips so she can easily pick it up and grip it. I was nervous at first but she’s doing great. She takes bites and will chew it and either swallow it or spit it out. We’ve had no choking incidents and she has only gagged once.

Answer

I ordered the LifeVac for peace of mind.

Answer

The thing with starting solids and wanting to do BLW, the fear of choking will always be there. BUT do not confuse gagging with choking. Since babies have a gag reflex that is higher up compared to ours, they will gag more often. If they start gagging, it is them working it out (obviously if they aren't making any sounds or turning blue that is true choking and intervening is necessary). With my son we did BLW and I can't tell you how many times I freaked out (I promise you I will likely be the same way with my daughter) but when your little one is gagging, do not put your finger in their mouth to try and help as that will likely push the food further back. I took a cpr/1st aid infant class and I followed quite a few BLW Facebook groups. Do what feels comfortable to you because both you and your little one should enjoy this time 😊

Irrational fear of baby choking? Should I feed chewable foods?

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