Parents of Preschoolers  Discussion Forum

Hi,
I have 3 yr old twin boys who are in play school. The are a favourite in their class, both with their teachers and other kids, as they get along well with everyone. The only problem with them is that they absolutely refuse to bite and chew their food.
They were born premature (at 7 1/2 months) and due to other complications, I had to start formula milk very early. After a few months, they would' nt drink from a bottle, so I had to feed even milk with a spoon. The problem now is that they are so used to it, that I have to mash and spoon feed them everything. From milk, to cereal (oats, corn flakes, froot loops, etc), to rice and dhal, even idlis, I have to mash and feed them, else they throw up or a shouting match starts b/w the 3 of us.
I am at my wits' end. They look very small for their age ( they weigh just about 11 kg and are 3 ft tall). I have checked up with their paed, he says there is no problem, just a matter of time. But I would like to know if there are some simple ways to make them bite and chew their food.
I give them all vegetables, but everyting in a soft form. They bite into steamed carrots, beet root, apple, etc. But refuse to chew. Likewise with choc and biscuits. They bite and spit it out.
I would be thankful if anyone could suggest ways to train my boys to eat properly. Thanks in advance.

- Worried mom of twins Jaya replied. How u are managing to send them to school if they eat only pureed food? How u feed them in between?

My son has reflux problem and so he vomits on solid food. I am keep trying to give him normal food but always he vomits.He is one year 10 months now.I am worried to send them to play school because of this. mommy replied. Hi,
i' m having a daughter 2 1/2 and facing the same problem.She does not even chew a banana .My friends are shocked to see this.In parties if she tries to eat something she will vomit and it is very embarassing .Even now her food should be soft and as we are south indians we are more into rice.