Baby Tip 1: Poor Sick Baby

One would think that after 18 months I should have learned one of the cardinal rules of motherhood: don't try and cajole/forcefeed the baby when they're just not interested. This is because they KNOW when they're not interested. Unlike my good self who can always be tempted with a delicious treat, my little one knows when he's had his fill. And for good reason in my experience: he's feeling sick, or soon will be :( Some kids might just not like the food - but not my little guy.) When there's vehement shaking of the head and 'nononono' passing his lips I should know that it's unwise to press on. But I don't! Last night the poor little mite refused his favourite chilli, then nibbled listlessly at a cheese sandwich and turned his nose up to fruit (always a big winner.)

food refusual = sick baby. Memorise, remember, think silly mummy!

Cue massive sickness on the treasured bear and cosy sleeping bag. Then brief nap and even more on the spare bear and sleeping bag. Crying, dripping nose and general misery which is so heart-breaking. Back to bed and then furious washing ensues - thank god for a tumble dryer.

So, next time I will remember that when food is pushed away it's for a reason. He's not going to starve in the few hours of the hunger strike, and it will pass soon. Water is good if he'll have it.

Oh, and a top smallworldmum tip when dealing with a sick baby: Woolite or other wool detergent gets the smell out of carpet! It took me a long time and lots of consultations with my fellow mums to find a solution that worked!!