Of Petite Plates and Palates
Isabelle opines on infant ingestion

Plate. Palate. What a difference an "a" makes. Nutritionally balanced, mama — pleasing dishes offered to tiny diners are frequently met with less-than-tantalized taste buds.

Now as I await my first-born, I've been revisiting my own childhood experience. The selectivity and critical skills that make me a successful adult business woman, frustrated — or more accurately, infuriated - my own mama who so lovingly prepared and presided over my childhood mealtimes.

Syd and Eliza have prepared me: Karma is about to come a — callin'. Given Allie's skill set, we're all fairly confident Mai and Ringo will be junior gourmands. But for me, no personal offense will be taken if my baby isn't recruited for the Clean Plate Club.

Nutritional intake is essential; yet sustenance beyond mere physical nourishment is also acquired at table.

Newborns quickly learn their basic needs will be fulfilled. For toddlers, the introduction of solid foods is analogous to the spectrum of the world's offerings, ready to be tasted and enjoyed. For preschoolers, it's apparently the opportunity for expressing self-awareness and ultimately, control. (Granted, the refusal to consume healthful options presented isn't a phase I'm looking forward to!)

Feeding feuds are not welcome in our parenting plan.

We intend to satisfy Baby's hunger — for food, for family time, for fun.