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Jenny’s Journey into Pediatric Nutrition

Jenny’s love for nutrition started early. Fascinated by the idea that food influences so many areas of life—our health, performance, even our daily energy—she dove into learning everything she could. But it wasn’t until she began her studies in nutrition that a lightbulb moment happened: so much of our lifelong health is shaped in childhood. What we’re fed and the habits we form when we’re young can ripple across our entire lives. That realization sparked her calling to focus on babies and kids.

Her career first took her into hospitals and clinics, but something felt incomplete. A quick dietitian visit wasn’t enough to make lasting change. “I wanted to spend more time walking alongside families,” Jenny shared, “to help them truly reach their goals for their kids.” That dream eventually grew into Eat, Play, Thrive—a space where parents are guided not just with information, but with support and encouragement for the everyday realities of feeding little ones.

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Balancing Motherhood and Work as a Dietitian Mom

As both a mom and a dietitian, Jenny knows firsthand the juggle of nurturing her own children while supporting other families. At home, she makes family meals a priority.

But she also believes in fostering independence. Her children know how to prepare simple meals, help around the house, and even put themselves to bed when needed. It’s a rhythm of balance, letting them grow while still being present for the things that matter most.

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When to Begin Starting Solids

One of Jenny’s biggest passions is guiding parents through starting solids without pressure. For her, it all begins with exploration and exposure. Babies need to see, touch, and taste a variety of foods—sometimes more as play than as nourishment at first.

So how do you know when your baby is ready? Signs of readiness often show up between 4–6 months:

• Good head and neck control
• Sitting with minimal support
• Interest in food (watching you eat, reaching for food)
• Reduced tongue-thrust reflex

Jenny encourages baby-led weaning around 6 months but reminds parents not to wait too long past that point.

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Baby-Led Weaning and Positive Mealtimes

For Jenny, a positive mealtime isn’t about spotless bibs or perfectly eaten bites—it’s about connection and cues. Babies show hunger by reaching or lip smacking, and fullness by turning their head or pushing food away. When parents respond gently, mealtimes remain positive—even if the floor is covered in sweet potato.

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Letting Go of Perfection in Pediatric Nutrition

If there’s one message Jenny wants parents to hold onto, it’s this: feeding doesn’t have to be perfect. “There are so many opinions and so much pressure,” she shared. “But the most important thing is building trust and joy around mealtimes.”

She also gently debunks some common feeding myths, such as:

• Babies should avoid fruit because of sugar
• Babies need more protein than other nutrients
• Babies should avoid fat

Instead, Jenny reminds parents that the first year is about teaching a love of food through variety and exposure—and that pediatric nutrition is about building healthy habits that last well beyond infancy.

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Tips for Parents of Picky Eaters

These reminders can ease stress for families navigating picky eating at any stage of childhood:

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Everyday Family Meals: A Realistic Approach

In her own home, Jenny’s approach is practical and grace-filled. Breakfasts are often quick and simple—sometimes something she makes, sometimes something her kids prepare. And on busy mornings, it may just be her or her husband with a quick cup of coffee before the day begins.

Lunches vary, too. During the school year, her children enjoy hot lunch a few times a week, which not only gives her a break but also encourages them to try new foods and expand their variety.

But dinner is where connection happens most. Whether it’s a home-cooked meal, something thrown together, or even takeout, Jenny keeps the focus on gathering at the table.

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Tools and Resources for Pediatric Nutrition

Jenny is especially excited about her partnership with Bébé Foodie, where she helped launch an app designed to guide parents through the first year of feeding solids. It’s comprehensive but flexible—meant to be used at each family’s own pace.

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Encouragement for Moms Beginning Their Feeding Journey

Every day, Jenny is reminded why her work matters. “Parents thank me for teaching them something new about food all the time,” she shared. “It feels so good to set families on a positive track for their children’s health.” And to parents just beginning their pediatric nutrition and solids journey, Jenny offers this gentle reminder: embrace the moment, relax, and have fun. The mess, the joy, and even the uncertainty are all part of a fleeting, beautiful season.

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Connect with Jenny

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Celebrate Motherhood with Portraits

As you’re pouring into your little one’s growth, don’t forget to celebrate your own motherhood journey too. The Motherhood Portrait Plan is designed to beautifully document each chapter of your story—pregnancy, newborn, and beyond—so you can look back and see the love and strength that carried you through these seasons.

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Let’s Chat

I’d love to hear from you—what’s been the most surprising part of feeding your little one so far? Drop a comment below to join the conversation!

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