Gemma Atkinson, former Hollyoaks actress and mother of two, has been forced to defend her decision to wean her baby son at four months old. Gemma had shared with her Instagram followers that she believed her son, Thiago, was ready for solid food because he was draining his bottles, puckering his lips, and reaching out. As a result, Gemma started feeding Thiago two bowls of baby porridge a day in addition to his usual bottles of milk. However, her milestone update was met with criticism, with some accusing her of spreading misinformation to new mothers.
Indignantly responding to the criticism
Gemma received a message from someone who claimed that the signs of readiness for solid food are sitting up with no or little support, no tongue thrust, and being able to put food up to their mouths themselves. The person suggested that Gemma consult the NHS website and expressed concern about her spreading misinformation. In response, Gemma posted the message on her Instagram Stories and defended her decision. She explained that she had consulted a private baby physio who informed her that sitting up with no support is not food-related but rather dependent on a baby's weight and size. Gemma also clarified that sitting up for food is to reduce choking hazards. She reassured the critic that she would not be giving her son breadsticks just yet and highlighted that the NHS guidelines can change over time. Gemma emphasized that as a second-time mother, she is confident in her decisions for her children.
Mum-shaming not a new experience for Gemma
This is not the first time Gemma has faced criticism from trolls for her parenting choices. In October, she was criticized for allowing Thiago to nap on his front, and in August, she was shamed for letting her daughter Mia watch CrossFit games on TV. Gemma is engaged to Strictly Come Dancing professional, Gorka Marquez, whom she met on the show in 2017. They are parents to Thiago and Mia.
