Approach to Complementary Feeding and Infant Language Use: An Observational Study.

ABSTRACT: Emerging research suggests that a more infant-led approach to complementary feeding may confer benefits for child language, but these findings are based on parent report studies. Using an observational approach this study examines whether different complementary feeding experiences relate to infant language exposure and language use. Fifty-eight parents recorded a typical infant mealtime in the home (mean infant age = 14 months, SD = 4.15). Observations were coded to measure the prevalence of infant-led and parent-led feeding using the Family Mealtime Coding Scheme. Caregiver language use (word types and token directed at the child, mean length of utterances in child-directed speech, responsiveness and initiations) and the number of infant vocalisations were coded in ELAN using CHAT conven

SUBMITTER: Farrow C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11650041 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature