Unpeeled tangerines, tomatoes, and steamed mustard cabbage?

Question

Is it ok to give an 5 mo old infant unpeeled tangerines, tomatoes, and steamed mustard cabbage to suck on, as if it's a toy? I think it's dangerous because they can accidentally suck out a small piece and choke, but my mother in law insists and keeps giving it to my son.

Answer 1

I think there are better things to give a child to play with than tangerines. I wouldn't give a 5 month old tomato or mustard cabbage either. If you are happy for them to eat it, but are concerned about choking, then have her puree them and feed them to your baby properly. I didn't start my daughter on solids until she was 6 1/2 months old. A 5 month old doesn't need anything in most cases. If you are feeding solids, it should be gluten free cereals and plain fruit and veggies. Nothing acidic. You need to have words with your MIL, politely :) If that doesn't work, your hubby needs to. Less politely if necessary. If she won't respect you two, as parents, find another baby sitter. It doesn't matter what she used to do with her kids, this one isn't hers.

Answer 2

Garlic Cucumbers Cabbage Tomatoes

Answer 3

I would stay away from the tangerines, they are sweet and will make him like only sweets, also they tend to be so acidic they can cause tummy ache. MIL should not be feeding foods other than rice cereal to a 5 mo old. Im not very polite when it comes to my kids, so I would tell her that due to his lack of having the stomach enzymes to digest such foods at this age, you feel that she can't see him till she becomes more concerned with his health. Her baby, her way, my baby, my way, get it? You are also right it is dangerous to feed whole foods esp b/c they can choke, even 6 mos old babies on jar-food, it is still blended to practically liquid, NO chunks

Answer 4

I would say NO WAY! There is a choking hazard. She has to remember you are the parent and what you say goes. If she continues to ignore you, have her son talk to her. If that doesn't work, I would not let her have my baby alone that way if she tries it again, i would take it right away and throw it in the trash... she will get the idea then.

Answer 5

Tell your mother in law to back off. I agree with you. Especially tomatoes and cabbage, they are soft, and he could choke easily.

Answer 6

The mustard greens might make him gassy. Plus you are right it is not safe. You are the mother, you tell your MIL that you aren't comfortable with this, she needs to comply with your wishes.

Answer 7

my son when he was 5 months he ate tomatoes whole, so, I'd have to go with no.

Tangerines maybe, if theyre really firm and baby has no teeth... and the cabbage again might be alright if they have no teeth....

but yeah, i dont know.

Answer 8

that is a HUGE choking hazard. Tell her you will not allow her to put your child in danger.