Mother-in-law Suggesting Cereal

whoooo early for cereal.
just say he may develop food allergies if i start giving food too early. or just say: back OFF :)

I completely understand how you are feeling. My mother-in-law thought she knew what was best for me (when pregnant) and what I should and should not be doing for my son. She also suggested that I give him rice cereal in his bottle when he was very young to help him sleep longer. For me, and being my first child, I just asked my pediatrician about it and when he should start getting solids. He gave me the answer to wait, and that's what I told my mother-in-law. She did mention it once more, I told her I am following the pediatricians advice because he is the doctor. she finally stopped. Good Luck. Just keep in mind that you are the parents, and what you think is best and are comfortable with is what you should probably go with.

L., maybe you could let her know that there are several studies out there that show that beginning food (including cereal) too early leads to obesity and weight issues later in life. my doctor wouldn't let us start on anything other than formula until my baby was six months old.

I haven't read all of the responses but I wanted to throw in my 2 cents... Speak with your doctor and have his advice be the final say that you can tell your mother-in-law. Mine said it is better on their little bodies to wait until 4-6 months in general and 5-6 months if there are a lot of allergies in the family. I brought in my baby book to show him where my mom had documented that she started me on SKIM milk at 2 months old and solid foods including meats by 3-4 months. He was very entertained by how much medical research has changed the way we do things now, including WHOLE milk for toddlers and so on. When I was little, I did not wear a bike helmet or sit in a car seat as a toddler (or even consistently wear a seat belt!) but that's not how I'm raising my kids because now we know better.

On another note, though... I wanted to add something else... Now that I have 3 kids, I look back and realize that my youngest ones really didn't need to eat as often as I fed them as newborns/infants. Every time they peeped I figured they must be hungry, and because they would eat when I fed them I figured I was right that they truly were crying from hunger. Well, now I know better and after reading Secrets of the Baby Whisperer I figured out for baby #3 that sometimes they cry because they are fussy or overstimulated or bored or sleepy and if you feed them less often they are actually not only fine but more content and sleep better. You said he eats every 2 hours and I am wondering if he has a huge, full feeding every 2 hours or if sometimes he "snacks" and falls asleep-- in which case he was not hungry but just sleepy and liked the sucking to help him fall asleep.

Eating every two hours is often a creature of habit rather than a necessity. Your son has become accustomed to snacking instead of eating full meals. At 2 months a formula fed baby has 7-8 feedings a day consuming about 3-4 ounces per feed. Is your son taking less than that at each feed? How is his napping? Are you following a nap schedule? Unfortunately snacking behavior leads to poor naps and then poor night sleep. I would try to enter into a feeding schedule of 3 hours. You can do this by extending the time in increments of 15 minutes (holding him off as much as possible until you reach 3 hours) or try increasing the amount of formula at each feed.
Most of the time, feeding issues stem from the first morning feed. What time is his early morning/night feed. If it is at 3am or 4am, for example, observe his first real meal (whatever time you eventually want that to be 7am etc.). If he does not eat a full bottle, then he does not need that 3-4am feed and you can slowly push the two feedings together. That way he will eat a "full" breakfast at 7am, and will not be hungry again until 10am...instead of taking a small meal at 7am (because he is full from the night feedings), and then is hungry again by 9am.
Another reason is that you are mistaking his hunger cries. He may be crying because he is tired...not hungry. Giving him a bottle may make him stop crying, but its sleep he needs, not food. At 2 months of age a baby should only be awake for about an hour before needing a nap of about 1.5-2hrs. How long is he awake during the day?

Putting cereal in a babies bottle will NOT cause them to sleep more or satisfy their hunger. It is safe to do, but in a reasonable amount. We had to put cereal (that had been ground up in our blender) into our daughters bottle when she was 8 weeks old due to reflux. Her brother (and twin) did not get cereal and both babies still ate and slept the same amount. Adding cereal will only cause poop issues for you. I suggest holding off. If you do feel that you need to add cereal, blend it up in your blender until it looks like flour. Then add no more than 1/2 tsp per 2 ounces of formula. Anymore than that and you are asking for major bowel trouble. The reason why the internet etc says do not add cereal is because most people will keep adding more and more cereal to try and get their babies to sleep and before you know it, the baby becomes dehydrated b/c it is not getting enough fluid. Also, you will need to increase the nipple size by one b/c of the thickened formula.

I suggest looking at his feeding first. He should only have 1 to 2 night feedings at 8 weeks old. More than that will compromise his day feedings. Work on getting "full" feedings during the day and slowly extend out his feeding schedule. Make sure he is resting well. Don't keep him up at night (later than 8:30pm). Keep a log, and you may be surprised to find, he has become a snacker instead of a feeder.

Hi L.! Congratulations on your son, I have a 14 week old son myself. I too was going through exactly what you were at the same age with my son and, like you, everyone has an opinion and everyone suggested rice in his formula. Against my better judgment, we did try it. I didn't add a lot of rice to his formula, but all it seemed to do was make him more uncomfortable. I did call my pediatrician afterwards to see what she had to say and of course they don't recommend it, because of potential food allergies, they can't digest it, etc. She suggested numerous times to just increase the amount of formula you give him - if he'll drink it give it to him! I also tried after the cereal incident Similac RS that is a formula thickened with rice starch. Maybe that would help. The best thing I can tell you is stand your ground, again, everyone is a doctor when it comes to your kids it seems. You have to do what you feel comfortable with and what's best for your son. Maybe your husband could talk to his mother and tell her in a subtle way to back off a bit. Easier said than done, I'm sure. Good luck with everything - enjoy that bundle of joy!!

Hi L.,

Congrats on your new baby.In my family we have always done the cereal thing at about 1 month. Remember you are not giving the whole box. It wont hurt him and it will help you rest because you need that too. I know that there is a lot of dont do this dont do that but remember that its your baby and you always need to you what you want.Also I would start the cereal in the daytime very little to see how he does. Then you change it to night.I only gave it at night until about 4 mouths. Well good luck to you and dont worry about your mother in law mine doesnt even talk to me and I never did anything to her.

Have fun with your baby they grow up fast.

Your baby's digestive system is not developed enough to take in cereal yet. From the frequent feeding schedule that you describe, he sounds breast fed. Keep up and stick to the milk, especially if the schedule is fine for you. I'm sure other mom's may quote something more scientific than mine in favor of waiting on the cereal. We waited til my daughter was 6 months before introducing solid food. And we did not do cereal because i have heard it is constipating. We did avocados and bananas and stuff like that. As i recall, this two hours schedule is common in the first couple months and gradually lets up. It depends on growth spurts. I sort of remember they happen at 3 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months according to Dr. Sears Baby book, if I remember right.

You do not need to give a 2 month old cereal. In fact, there is some research that shows early introdution of solids could lead to obesity problems & the development of diabetes etc later on & it will not help him sleep better!!! He will give you very obvious cues when he is ready for solids. He will open his mouth while watching you eat something (like he wants a bit himself), reach for your food etc. Wait until HE gives the cues, NOT your mother-in-law!

I did with my first 2 children and not with my 3rd. It didn't seem to make that much of a difference. My daughter did nurse every 2 hours for about 2 months and then so slowed, without cereal. I actually didn't start her on cereal until she was 6 months. That also worked great for us!!

Your son does not need rice cereal. In fact he doesn't need anything but breastmilk or formula until about 6 months. My son has never been fed any rice cereal. We started with avacados at about 6 months. Check out www.mercola.com for the most recent research on feeding children refined foods such as rice cereal. This will give you proper information to give to your mother in law. What I told our parents is just because it's something people have always done or did in the past doesn't make it the best thing. As we learn more we do better. And this goes with everything we do. This way she won't feel like she was a bad mom for doing it, just that recommendations have changed since she had children. Hope this helps.

L.,
The fact is that rice cereal is a filler, not a nutritional food item. Your baby needs to be on breastmilk or formula for as long as possible without fillers taking away from the nutrition.
Take Care,
T.
Mom of 4
Breastfed for a total of 5 years

Hi!!!!!

I understand completely what you are saying! I am a mommy of a 12 year old and a 3 month old baby. I was breastfeeding my son since the day he was born. Unfortunately, I had a real hard time having him latch onto my breast. Also, I didn't make sufficient milk for him. Every time I would feed him, I had to supplement him with 2 oz of formula.... So, after two hard months I started feeding my son formula only. My son would wake up every 3 hours in the middle of the night... so I would feed him. (My doctor said "do not feed him before 3 hours after feeding him 6 ounces since you have to give him time to digest what he had eaten.).... Waking up every 3 hours was really hard for me... Lack of sleep..... It got to the point that I called my baby's doctor and told her "I am going to go bonkers if I do not get more than 3 hours of sleep especially when my son takes 1 hour to eat 6 oz of formula!!!) The doctor said "Give him a teaspoon of cereal in his milk for the last 2 feedings of the night. Also, she had said the cereal would help with his "mild" reflux. (The cereal supposedly helps keep the acid from the milk from going up)... I did what the doctor said and yes, the baby sleeps a bit more.... but still to this day, even with cereal he only lets me sleep 4 or 5 hours. My little sister has a baby only 3 days older than my son and she does the same and her baby lets her sleep 8, 9 or even 10 hours a day!
My husband and I did the same thing as you did... we searched the internet and I only read "after 4 months feed a baby cereal since their tummy's are then able to handle it."
Supposedly, La Leche League says its okay to feed your child any time the baby asks for breast milk.
If you feed your child formula, I think you should try to hold the baby from eating every 2 hours to at least 3 so the baby can digest what he/or she had eaten previously.

Keep in mind, older people always gave their kids cereal and even juices when the babies were small... times have changed and now doctors are more cautious than ever before.

This is ONLY advice!!!! I am not a doctor! I just had to share my experience because its so frustrating when you search for different opinions on the internet and its all the same answers.

Sorry I agree with with your MIL... I started giving my son just a Tbls. spoon in his bottle just before 2 months! He was hungry and crying! He is a healthy young Marine fighting for Our Freedoms now! Just watch for gas, and if so, a little nip of Mylantia will fix that also! Happy Healthy baby! Good luck- each mom needs to do what she is comfortable with! I respect your choice! God bless you both!
Kathy N.

Well when I had my son lots of people suggested that to me as well but none of them lived with me so that makes it tough. Since she does live with watch out because she may try it when you aren't looking. Some people have told me when they baby-sat they would give it to the babies they kept even though the M. didn't. For me I just stuck to what I thought was right. Also make sure when you are feeding your child he/she is satisfied full. And if the baby does happen to sleep through feeding or not request it at the two hour mark it is okay. they can go a little longer than we think without eating sometimes, they are always very good at letting you know when they are hungry. Are you breast feeding? I did and I thought it was nessecary to feed him every 2 hours but I read the baby whisperer and realized I should have let him sleep and gotten him on a schedule. Good luck. if you get along with your mother inlaw you could let her know that you appreciate(tolerate) the advice and definately keep it coming(if you are brave enough) but since this is your first you are going to try it your way and if you get tired or stress you will try her way maybe. also the support groups for breast feeding moms were a great help as far as information goes. La leche league. and local groups. God Bless You and Congrats on the new one!!

Ah the mother-in-law advice...I remember those days. According to her I was starving my child by not giving him cereal earlier, food earlier and real milk earlier...mind you he was in the 75 percentile every time I took him to the doctor. I say go with your gut. If you want to wait till 4 months (which I did despite the nagging) then do it. Honestly nothing you say will change her mind. I told my MIL that the doctor recommends it, I told her the benefits and risk and everything and she always had something to come back with - including "Doctors aren't always right!" Just kindly thank her for her suggestions and let her know you're going to do what makes you comfortable. And CONGRATS on the new baby! =)

Hi L. ~

2 months is VERY young for solid foods. I would wait, but you should consult your pediatrician and let m-i-l know the answer the doc gives you.

usually doctors don't suggest giving babies cereal until they are three months, and only if they are able to hold their neck up. Hope this helps.

I gave both of my sons rice cereal starting at about 2 months. Formula just was not holding them, my oldest was born at 8lbs 5oz and my second was 9lbs 1oz. My older sons doctor told me to feed him he's hungry. I don't suggest putting it in a bottle. I made it a little looser and gave it to them on spoons. Nothing ever happened to them.

While rice cereal will give your child that fuller feeling. Lots of new research is suggesting that giving solids before six months is a factor in stomach problems- due to their little bodies not being able to break down the food.
Whatever you decide, it's your baby you and your husband do what you want. Because the advice won't stop no matter how well intentioned and off it may or may not be.
When someone gives me suggestions about my son, now 16 months. If I don't like it or don't want to do it, I just simply say, "Really? Our Pediatrician who has been in practice for over twenty-five years has never suggested that to me." OR, "Really? I'll ask the doctor his opinion. Thanks."

At that age the baby gets no nutritional value all it does is fill a tummy. His instestines are not developed to absorb the new tritions

I started my first on cereal t 3 1/2 months at the advice of the nurse practitioner at the ped. office due to her refluxing. she had bad milk allergies to formula and had to go on lactosse free but it wasn't strong enough well the cereal didn't work and to this day she can't eat rice. makes her thow up. always has since she was little. don't know if its an allergy or just a texture thing but it hits her mouth and thats all she wrote. tell your mom in law that your going to wait. at 2 months my kids were eating 4 oz of formula and sleeping 6 hrs thru the night which to me was a god send.just tell you mother-in-law that you don't feel comfy feeding him solids yet that will come soon enough.

Well I kind of went on the other side of the spectrum. On the advice from my mother, I fed my baby the rice cereal at two-months old. He did sleep better and was not as fussy as he usually was. Not sure how they can really know that their digestive track isn't mature enough for it, when this has been a relatively new way of thinking. Back in the 80s and earlier most babies were given some form of solid food faily young and yet they still thrived. And I do remember when my son was 3 months old and had this awful case of constipation that the doc told me to give him some prune juice. I couldn't find any so I decided as a last resort to try stage 1 prunes. He loved it and had a nice poop that night. So I decided to try (in small doses of course) the other fruits, and he is a very healthy 4 year old now.

So in a nutshell, I really think it is a personal choice you as a parent need to make. I wouldn't be too stressed about it whichever way you decide.

I PUT JUST A TINY AMOUNT OF RICE CEREAL IN MY GIRLS MILK FOR THE "LAST" FEEDING OF THE NIGHT. IT HELPS WITH THEIR SLEEPING LONGER. MY GIRLS FLAP IN THE THROAT WAS NOT MATURE AND WHEN THEY BURPED IT ALL CAME OUT....PROJECTILE !! I HAD TO FEED THEM EVERY 2 HOURS ALSO...BUT THE CEREAL MADE THEM MORE SATICEFIED. ONLY RICE CEREAL UNTIL THEY AGE ANOTHER MONTH OR TWO. THE RICE ALSO SETTLES THEIR TUMMYS. U MIGHT HAVE TO PINCH THE BOTTLE NIPPLE AND CUT HOLE JUST A TINY TINY BIT SO NOT SO HARD TO SUCK THROUGH. THIS REALLY HELPS AND WILL NOT HARM THE BABY !!!!!!C.

A lot of women say that. I have 4 kids from 20, 11, 2, 9months. The first one I did the cearel in the bottle and he was always constipated. Every older woman around me said the same thing. My 11 year old just got lots of bottles!!!!!!!!! No cereal except with a spoon when he started being able to sit up at 4 months. My 2 year old strictly breast fed so feeding every 2 hours is just how it is. Cearel when she was 3-4 months old but she still wanted to eat every 2 hours. My littlest guy..lots of bottles he didnt take to nursing.I thought about the cereal thing and thought I would try it but he still wanted anothwer bottle real soon. So I just feed him the cereal with a spoon.
My sister-in-law has given her babies the cearel since day one in the bottle.
I think it is the easy way out! But I really dont see them much effected except being constipated.

My son is two months old and he eats every two hours. It's totally normal, especially for breast fed babies. My son tends to be a snacker. He'll eat for 5-10 minutes every hour or two. If you are breastfeeding try to keep him on the breast longer during each feeding.

I will not introduce cereal until he is around 6 months old because his digestive system isn't mature enough to handle it until then. I don't believe it is wise to hurry the solid foods. Babies are designed to get most of their nutrition from breastmilk for the first 6 months. My older son didn't really eat solids until he was 10 months old. Every baby is different so you have to watch for your son's cues to determine when he is ready for solids.

Breast milk digests faster than formula so breast fed babies eat more frequently. If you are breastfeeding I would suggest you go to the breastfeeding luncheons at Florida Hospital and speak to a lactation consultant about the rice cereal. I can assure you that they would suggest you wait until he is older. If you can't go to the luncheons, call a lactation consultant and ask.

Good luck! I know how frustrating it can be to live with family and have a new baby. Just remember, you are the mom and you have a right to parent your son the way you see fit.

Hi L.. I started my son on rice cereal when he was 6 weeks old. Everyone I knew had done the same thing also. Especially if he is wanting to eat every 2 hours. That usually means he's not getting enough to fill him up. Just don't put it in his regular bottle. Get a cereal feeder bottle (Target) and use it then give him his regular bottle.
Good Luck.

Your son is too young for cereal and it can not only be hard on his digestive system, it could cause damage that will show up later. My children were all eating every two hours at your sons age, their individual feeding plan is decided by what their little bodies need. No two babies are just alike and their appetite and frequency will be decided by their own individual growth needs. My grandson is just over a year old and he still eats every two hours, only now it's more solids than liquids, and my three year old grandson seems to eat non stop all day! Since it doesn't bother you, keep doing what you are doing and let your mother in law's advice just slide. If she becomes too pushy point out to her that she raised her children as she saw fit, and now it's your turn to do the same, you will be happy to listen to her advice, but will make the final decision. Good luck in your situation.

Oh boy!....Living with the in-laws is very tough. My mom always taught me to smile and go along while you are visiting and then when you get home do what you want to do. But, since you are living there, smiles don't last long. I would let her know that you appreciate her help, however, I would not put rice in the bottle. I would follow what the pediatrician suggest. The problem with most over eaters today is that everyone is expected to sit down at the table and eat together as a family at scheduled times. If our bodies worked on schedules that would be great. My daughter is 13. She ate every 2 hours and I didn't put anything in her bottle until it was time to do so. She still eats small frequent meals today. My mom worries that she doesn't eat enough. Her small frequent meals consist of healthy choices. Do what you feel is right for your son. And he will grow up just fine.

L., I understand your position. Isn't it amusing that EVERYONE seems to know what's best for our own child/ren? First, you are right to wait. Two months is too early to introduce solids of any kind. A young baby eating every 2 hours is normal. I waited until 4 months before introducing cereal too.

As for how to handle your MIL, you must stand your ground and gently but firmly inform her that your baby is YOUR baby and you will do what is best for your child and that means waiting until your baby is older before introducing solids. Thank her for her concern and simply tell her that babies this young are too young for cereal. If she persists, you can simply tell that your pediatrician agrees that your baby is too young for solids.

Hi L.,

All 4 of my kids had cereal early - which they say not to as it can cause food alergies later on - well, so far, there have been no allergies. My kids were all HUGE eaters - taking 6 to 8 8 ounce bottles per day - my youngest - at 1 week was drinking 4 oz - my pediatrician told me at just a couple weeks - to start giving him cereal - just a bit - with formula or breast milk - from a spoon - never a bottle - and just that little bit held him over. Peds say baby should have between 24 and 32 oz of formula / breast milk - we would go through a can of formula in 1.5 days!!! It was CRAZY - so at 5 months, he eats 3 jars of food at a time - yeah, he's a chub - but not unhealthy - almost 20 pounds (he was over 9 when he was born) SO this being said, you are his MOM, do what you feel is right - if he is okay w/ the breast or formula, and it isn't draining you - literally and figuratively - definitly wait, but if he acts hungry - go ahead.

Hey L.! Yes, I didn't start my daughter until she was 4 1/2 months, and showed an interest in eating...she was really CLOSELY observing us eating, and moving her mouth a lot when we did. That said, my mom always tells me how in her day the doctor told her to feed us cereal at 3 weeks! We all made it! In the end, I would talk to your pediatrician...it does seem like he is hungry! Good luck...and if you really don't want to do it yet, stand your ground with your MIL!!!!

i would wait until at least the 4 months. babies do not have the swallowong allowance for foods. and rice cereal might get the baby constipated so i would be careful there too. i am sure your mother-in-law means well. but i would be careful. and when you do start it remember to keep the cereal thin becuse of the tongue swallowing allowance.but i think 4 months is soon enough.
however my mom told me my grandmother fed me bean soup the night after i was born, and i am still here.LOL.

I haven't see anyone mention this yet, so here goes. Babies do not "need" rice cereal for nutritional purposes at any age. The purpose of cereal as baby's first food is to give them practice mouthing and swallowing something thicker than breast milk or formula to get them used to eating more "solid" foods. Cereal is perfect for that becasue you can start out mixing it very runny, and then gradually make it thicker and thicker as baby gets used to it. That is the only purpose of cereal in a baby's diet. It is not a "nutritional" food. This info came straight from my pediatrician (who has given me the BEST advice on everything from feeding, to sleep issues to treating illnesses, and knows a LOT about infant and child nutrition). Am surprised other people have not heard this from their peds as well.

Cereal actually has fewer calories than breast milk or formula, so I do not buy the fact that it would keep your baby satisfied longer. I think it is just anecdotal evidence (coincidence maybe, or wishful thinking) from the moms that say it does. There is more fat in breast milk, which actually helps a baby feel satiated, whereas cereal is just a carb.

BTW:My kids also ate every two hours at that age(BF). I started them on cereal at four months, as was recommended at the time, but I hear the APA now recommends waiting until six months.

The general rule for breastfeeding babies is one ounce every hour until one month old, then 2 ounces every 2 hours until 2 months old, then three ounces every 3 hours until they are 3 months old. I would NOT feed rice cereal at this stage. For one, they don't need it, and two, you can cause a hyper sensitive reaction to new foods, causing food allergies. It will upset her tummy and cause him to gain weight. It will also teach him to need to feel heavy and full at meal times, leading you to give him more food than he needs and setting him up for a lifetime of weight struggles. It has been proven that breastfed babies, although chubbier at infancy, weigh less in general as adults because they are used to eating just what they need, not huge 10 ounce bottles used to soothe themselves. As for dealing with your mother-in-law. I would tell her that you really appreciate her concern for the baby and her desire to help but that you and your pediatrician decided to wait until the baby is 6 months old to introduce foods. Tell her that you know that the breastmilk and formula are complete foods and that you don't feel that his delicate digestive system is ready for solid food. If she continues to bother you, tell her politely, "again, I appreciate your concern, but we talked about his already and I do not want to give my son solid foods now" then change the subject. If she persists, it is time to talk to your husband about how uncomfortable it make you to have her undermine you and constantly fight you on this and ask him to talk to her privatley. He needs to be YOUR husband first, his son's father second and his mother's son last.

L.,

Our son was born at 9 lbs, 10 oz and ate constantly! We started putting cereal in his formula around 2 months and he did great with it. I was concerned at first too, so we tried just a spoonful at a time. He loved it and it really cut down on the number of feeding per day. Soon after we started the cereal, he started sleeping through the night, which was very nice :)

I would definitely wait at least until the baby is 4 months old. If you introduce foods too early there may be a chance of allergies, etc which would be for life. You dont want to chance that. Everyone has different ways when it comes to raising children; do what YOU feel is best for your family and kids. Best of luck!

You are right to pass on that suggestion. Cereal at 2 months is no longer considered good for babies. In the "old days" (LOL ... when we were babies) that was done to make the baby sleep through the night with a full stomach. Now that we see that every 2 hours is about right, especially if you're breastfeeding since their bodies digest it more efficiently! The formula and baby food companies did some major marketing to docs back in the day (and still do!) and their suggestions became the rule of thumb for many years.

The practice is finally changing.

Good luck!

While I waited for 4 months to give my daughter rice cereal, some even suggest waiting until 6 months. But the main concern I have read is the stomach is not mature enough to digest more complex things, which can lead to food allergies. This is also why they dont suggest things like peanut butter or honey until an even older age, alos choking hazard. But if you are okay with waiting, do it-its for the best. Taking that risk is not worth it, versus 2 more months of a lot of bottles. And your mother in law has to understand, its your baby now and if she doesnt, too bad she has no choice in the matter really, her kid (s) are grown and its your turn now to do what you feel is best.

I got the same advice from people with my kids. I chose to ignore it and go with the advice of the pediatrician and waited until they were 4 months old. I gather that it comes from older generations when pediatricians had different or little advice and it has been continually passed on. There are things pediatricians know now that they didn't then. I will say though that there is good advice out there too and it isn't all to be ignored. :)

I had the same thing and I ended up giving my son 2 more ounces than I was. He may just need a little more. We tried the whole rice cereal and I didn't see a change. Hopefully this helps! Good luck!

We started using rice at about the 2 month time but in very small amounts - like 1/4 teaspoon in a 4oz bottle. It was just enough to thicken the formula where it seemed to stick to his ribs a little longer than formula by itself, and it did make him sleep longer. If your boy is smaller than average I would NOT recomend doing this - he needs that bottle every two hours to get the body growth. We did it and it worked; however the pediatrician would like to have hung us when we admitted to using rice during his 6-month visit.

I agree with the other mothers. A 2 month old does not need cereal. Eating every two hours that young is completly normal. My daughter did that for the first 3 to 4 months. They need the nutrience found in breastmilk/fomula. Some say you can start to give them rice cereal at 4 months, but ask your doctor. My doctor told me to wait till 6 months. You can tell your mother in law some things have changed since she had babies and that you are going with what your doctor says. I know its hard to live with family but hang in there and remember its your baby and your decision. Don't let anyone pressure you. You know whats best for your baby. Go with your gut. Good luck!

Well, I have found that issue is very confusing. you will get moms who give their babies cereal from the moment they are born and saw they were fine and other who don't do it til 4-6 months or longer. I personally think it is a matter of convience for parents. The baby eats something heavier and you don't have to feed the baby as often or get up as much during the night. At two months a baby should be eating every 2-3 hours and getting up to feed. i know that doctors say a newborn should not sleep through the night, they need to feed often. I personally waited til 4 months to start cereal and them it was 4-6 weeks before that were eating more than a spoonful at a time.
Also, starting solids too early can lead to food allergies and childhood obesity. Talk to your doctor. Also I find that bottle feeding moms do this more than breastfeeding moms. Not sure which you are but listen to your instinits and not your MIL. She may mean well but sometimes "mother does not know best".
Congratulations on your new baby and enjoy!

My mother-in-law did the same thing with me with our first child. I encourage you to not give in to her and what she wants: this is your child!! If the baby is happy then don't go trying to change anything. He'll let you know when he's just not being satisfied w milk alone. I believe that 2 months old is WAY too young to start introducing cereal even though I know plenty of moms who have done it. I just think that there's no need of introducing that to his little digestive system this soon.
I wish you the best. Enjoy your son during this precious time.

Hi L.,
I had the same issue with my mother-in-law. I simply told her that the pediatrician said no cereal till 4 months. At the 4 month appointment I actually asked and the Dr said that babies need to learn the difference between eating and drinking calories. So that is exactly what I told her. I always think that if things are easier for me then maybe they aren't that great for my daughter. If you son is waking up it's because he's hungry. I think that our parents did things different years ago. They need to understand that times have changed. I had constant battles with my mother-in-law over what I should be doing. I usually blame the pediatrician for everything and then I don't look ungrateful for the advice and it keeps the peace :-)

I fed all my kids cereal early. I just mixed it with juice and I had no problems. None of my kids are allergic to anything. I just started with rice cereal at first then moved up to the others after a few weeks.
K. R

Proud wife of an AF man and very proud mother of 3 girls; 16, 11, and 9. Wow were does the time go.

Don't give in to the nagging. My MIL pulls the same about various topics. It is very important that you let her know that you have listened to her advice and value it(she wants to feel appreciated), but it is also important that if you don't feel right about taking that particular piece of advice to stand your ground. You are the mother of your child.

Don't quote me on this, but I think starting early can lead to allergies and various other complications.

Keep up the great work, Mommy! :)

I have had 2 children which were both EXTREMELY hungry babies. I waited till they were 4 months old and had the nagging preassure of those moms that have already done it "try" to push me into it early. Yes it fills them up but you might want to wait. Not all babies are the same and though you may not see any reactions now you may later. My sister in law is a pediatriacian and I always listen to her advise though sometimes I will take it into consideration and make my own decision based on her input. Some parents do it and that is fine, but at the end you are the mommy and know WHAT IS BEST for your little ones.

Hi L.~
I have a 10 week old baby girl, and she eats about that often, also unless she's asleep. Everything I've read, and what the pediatrician has told me, food other than breast milk or formula does not start until at least 6 months or later!!

Their digestive system is not develped to handle 'solid' food before then. As long as your baby is gaining weight and is not at the breast because he isn't getting enough milk, you have nothing to worry about!

You can always tell her your doctor said. That should shut her up! I'm sure you're an awesome mom! Good luck with your mother-in-law, I'm sure it isn't easy :)

Feeding infants foods other than formula/breast milk can cause them to develop allergies. I would not feed your son anything else unless the doctor gives you a clear go-ahead. You could create a lifetime of problems for him just by not waiting a few months.

Hi L.. I have a son soon to be 8years. I believe that the children we are having in this generation are much different and growing at a very fast rate. A tea spoon of cereal will not hurt a baby but you will notice a full baby sleeps better and longer. You are the mum still so follow your instinct.

2 months is too young to start cereal. Confirm with your doctor...

I think you will get lots of people telling you to go ahead and do it that it was fine when they did it but none of these people are parents of adult kids who know the reprocussions of it. It can lead to long term digestive and other health problems. Sometimes they go through growth spurts where they want to eat more. It will pass and you should pass on the solid foods for now. There is a reason "they" say not to do it. Congratulations on your new baby boy.
A.

L.,
Congratulations on your new baby boy!!
Oh mother-in-laws!! Arent they the best??? I know she probably means well. But I think you should do what YOU think is best for your baby. If your baby eating every 2 hrs doesnt bother you, then continue what you are doing. Personally, I wouldnt ever feed a 2 month old cereal. I know that your MIL & your own Mother may have done it with you & your husband, but this is YOUR child & things have changed since you guys were born.
That's my opinion, I am interested in reading what the others wrote.
Good luck!
H.

I have gone through this with each of my children, especially the last 2 since I nursed/nurse them. I just tell the person (usually mom, grandma, MIL) that it is my decision and I am not introducing it early an that is final.

For breastfed babies, it is pushed more by others. I just explain that breastmilk is digested easier and quicker than formula and that substituting cereal for more breastmilk is not something I am willing to do. I barealy introduce any solid foods until my kids are trying to take it out of my hands, which usually happens between 3 & 6 months, but I only offer tastes here and there not consistently.

Your sons nursing schedule is completely fine. There is NO need to add cereal or anything else to the mix.

I breastfed my 3rd child for almost 16 months (he self-weaned) & I am planning to breasfeed my 4th until she self-weans.

Good luck

S.

I agree with Mandy and Marie. Breast is best. I think it's so sad that society is in a big rush to have our children grow up. I say let them be children. You should let your son be a baby. That's what he is. He's just been in this world for 2 months and already stuff processed food in his fragile precious little body? Hmmmm I see no reason why a child needs supplemental anything. Nature created what is best for your pride and joy-breast milk. Let him enjoy it as long as he can (unless he's 16 trying for a sip, tee hee). Really simple is best. I nursed exclusively for the first year then started introducing vegetables and beans after that while still nursing. My 6 year old daughter is a wonderful and healthy eater. She doesn't have, never did have, digestive/weight problems, once yearly (at most) gets a little one day cold and that's it.

I know mother in law's can be frustrating as they "know everything" but take it with a grain of salt. Thank her for her advice and politely say you want to do things your way with your child.

Enjoy this time, they grow so quickly!

I was in a similar situation, but w/my own mother, when my son was 3 mo old. He was not yet sleeping thru the night & she kept insisting we try rice cereal & was convinced he would sleep thru the night if we did. We started rice cereal just at night when he was three months old, and she was right...he's slept thru the night ever since! Two months, though...that's a little young. I would wait at least till 3 months, although dr's do suggest 4 months before any solids. GL!

At this age, eating every two hours is NORMAL. So that is nothing to worry about, and your child isnt over eating...At this age, they still listen to their internal hunger level, and as we get older, we tend to not listen any more... lol

A babies digestive system is not mature enough for intake of any solid food...including baby cereal. This may cause food allergies, irritable bowl, constipation, and mess up your childs internal "clockwork" of what he needs right now.

Our babies internal system is still maturing and growing after birth...thus why an all liquid diet is recommended until 4-6 months....and even now, most research will tell you that you really should wait until 6 months to introduce foods...

Two of my children started at 4 months old...one has severe food allergies (dunno if related or not), The last child started solids (cereal and such) at 6 months old, and does still have an intolerance to some foods, but no severe allergies.

PLUS! By adding cereal to the diet of a child so young, they may just fill up on a food that does not provide all of what he needs right now...That is another reason why a liquid diet is so important! It packs the most nutrients in a small amount, so that the baby can absorb it thru their system, and help them mature and grow. Cereal may, also, add extra iron and some nutrients to the childs body that may be in excess of what that child needs, thus causing problems.

Bottom line, politely tell her that you respect what she did with her child(ren), but you have a different perspective and will do what YOU feel is best for YOUR child. And i agree to keep an eye on her...People do tend to do things behind your back if not watched. And if this is her home, DO NOT cave in just because you live with her--and dont let her hold that above your head. Respond back with "If you feel taking the roof away from your grandchild is more important than respecting my wishes, perhaps we need another arrangement" or "Thank you for helping to provide a roof over our heads, but that does not give you any rights to dictate how my child will be raised, and you need to respect my (our) wishes"--and if you are contributing to the household, by groceries, paying rent, bills , cleaning, or any of the other--you let her know that you are pulling your own weight....

You should, also, have your hubby talk to her, since this is his mother....

Just my opinions... :) I wish you all the luck in the world!

L.,

My kids are 40, 39 and 29. When I had the first baby, the Dr. told me to start her on cereal at 1 mo., the second baby he told me to start at 2 wks, then when I had the third baby they wanted me to wait one year to feed solids. She now has a baby, 11 mo., and they told her to wait til he was 6 mo. They all did fine, but I think what they are trying to avoid are allergies. My second child has many food allergies, and environmental, were they caused by eating solids early? I don't know, allergies are in both our families so that my be heredity. I have noticed though, with my grandchildren, starting them later has made the "feeding" much easier. I see nothing wrong in waiting and nursing the baby every two hours. To me, nursing is a wonderful bonding experience and should be encouraged, especially in the first few months. Cheri

Hi L.,
Well, I'm going to be the lil black sheep of the family here! ha! I did start feeding both my sons w/rice cereal almost a month after being born...just a little bit, and it help them. But that's your decision. I would just say to ur mother in law, to mind her own business and that's ur child you will raise them the way you feel its safer and good for both u and him.

Remember everyone will give u advice but you will have to decide what's best and from now on it will never stop! ha!

Mother-in-laws suggest LOTS of things. When in doubt, ask your pediatrician.
My oldest son started cereal very early--he seemed to be hungry all the time. My second and third were on formula from about 6 months old. I guess that's when the idea that early solids could trigger allergies. None of them have any. So you see, it's probably a matter of choice. Good luck and congratulations on your beautiful baby.

i got this advice from all quarters, too, but for what reason? Breastmilk provides all your baby needs right now. It is BY FAR the best nutrition you can give him. I suggest bringing your MIL to your pediatrician with you so she can hear it from the expert that breastmilk is best. My pediatrician doesn't recommend rice until 6 months! Two months is definitely too young, though. As you know from your reading, there are plenty of physical and biological reasons why babies should stick with mom's milk only until their digestive systems develop enough to handle other foods. (Just as an aside, there are ways to sit down with your husband and MIL and lay down the law on your childrearing. It is YOUR child. We did this with my mother, who thought she knew better than we did. And she might. She has more experience. But the point of our conversation was simply "please respect me and my decisions" and it went over really well. We haven't had any conflicts since then. I really highly recommend that. You need an ally in childrearing, not a critic.

Hi L., Congrats on your newborn! Do you what you feel is right and what your doctor is recommending. I've not heard of a ped in this day and age who will recommend or support cereal in the bottle. When your MIL nags, just say the same response "the doctor said to wait." Be strong :)

Most studies show that giving food to a baby before the child is 6 months old can cause food allergies down the road. Also, a baby's digestive system is not prepared to handle food. Besides that, the poop is going to change for the worse. Ha! At the age of 2 months your baby is still using the breast as comfort and food and that may go on for some time. The most important thing you can do for a nursing baby is to take cues from him/her. I nursed my babies "at will" and my son is now 16 years old and 6 foot 2 inches, slim and healthy. He nursed until he was 14 months old and started biting. My daughter "ditched me" at 7 months because it was more fun to sit up and watch her brother run around the house. Every child is different, but please consider taking your baby's lead. Breast milk has everything a child needs for the first year. Introducing food is simply a social interaction to prepare for actual eating later on. Remember, you know your child and his/her needs better than anyone. Trust yourself?

Call me if you need to.

My mother-in-law gave my oldest son rice cereal and I hod nothing but problems. His little tummy was hurting him. I told his Dr. about it at his check-up and she said that his digestive system wasn't ready to handle the solid food yet. I would just wait. It did't make him sleep any longer or eat less often. I hope this helps!

Hey L.,
I have 3 kids, now all over the age of 20. They were all sleeping all night long and took great naps during the day by the time they were a little over a month old due to that little bit of cereal. This came at the advise of their doctor. They were very alert when they were awake and very playful. It is trial and error as kids do not come with handbooks and each child is different. But I agree with your mom-in-law that if your son is hungry every 2 hours that he is ready for a little bit more "meat & potatoes" (substance) in his diet. The cereal would allow him to feel more satisfied. I would start out with just a spoon full mixed in his feeding just before bedtime. Then add one during the day once in awhile. Being that you live with her this may solve the nagging and make life easier for everyone. I was a working mom and very busy in the community but like you, my kids were then and even more so now the light of my life. We are a very close family and my oldest daughter is expecting their first child in May. My best wishes to you and I know that you will truly enjoy being a mom - it is the greatest job in the world.

I agree with all the other posters about waiting. But I would tread carefully when it comes to getting your way across to your MIL. This woman will be in your life for a very long time, and having a rocky relationship with her will make you miserable for years to come. I am not suggesting you should give in to her at all, but be very careful how you go about any conversations on this subject with her.

Depending on her age, she might not have much information about nursing. My own mother's generation didn't nurse. They gave them formula in glass bottles. (They also were "knocked out" for the birth and don't know much about delivery.) There are a LOT of things that are different today than when she was taking care of her own precious baby (your husband). From her point of view, she must have done a super job because her son turned out great! Look, you married him! (LOL). But gently explain that the medical community has learned a lot and a lot of things have changed since then. Nursing is now recommended over formula. Doesn't mean formula is bad, just that it is preferential to breastfeed. And if you are breastfeeding, it is much more easily digested than formula. So they nurse more frequently than if they were drinking formula.
Before telling her that, I would recommend one of two things:
a) at your next well baby visit (which shouldn't be much longer, or you can just call their office and ask for one) ask for a printed guideline for your baby's age, and at which age/stage to introduce what. I'm sure they have something printed that you can take home and show her.
or,
b) Take her with you to the appt, and ask the doctor (in her presence) what he recommends as far as introducing cereal, etc. He will probably give you a guick overview (which you'll never remember all the details) but will also have a paper or brochure that gives guidelines on it.
If she has any questions, she can ask the doc. Then, when you are home, if she brings it up, you can just say you are going by the doctor's recommendations. He's been to medical school.
She is trying to be helpful, is all. If she is trying to help your wee one start sleeping better at night, cereal is not necessary to do that. There are many sleep training methods that will help him sleep through the night ("thru the night" means 5 hours or more straight). (We used the "On Becoming Babywise" books, and ours were both sleeping 7 hr or more each night before 3 months old. Nursing, and no cereal.)

Also, you should discuss all this with your husband. Always discuss MIL issues with him before acting... you two need to be on the same page, otherwise, he will get put in the middle and that makes problems for you and your MIL and for you and your spouse. You don't really want to deal with all that baggage down the road.

Good luck, and congratulations!