Starting solids is one of the most important steps in your new baby’s life. Eating healthily at this young age gives your child the best possible start and sets them up for a lifetime of good nutritional habits. There is a range of high quality baby food solids available on the market or you can easily make your own from scratch.
The standard age for the introduction of solids is anywhere from 4 months onwards, although experts recommend waiting until 6 months if at all possible. However, it is vital that you start no later. As an infant of this age has nutritional requirements, particularly for iron, can no longer be met by milk alone.
From 6 – 9 months, milk feeds should always be given first. Try solids when your baby has had a reasonably good feed, and is calm and alert. The first foods you offer should be very soft and completely smooth, with a mild flavour. Commercially bought rice cereal and pureed fruit and vegetables are good choices. Add some breast milk or formula so give it a familiar taste.
When you first introduce solids to your child, give it to him or her after a liquid feed, to ensure that the adequate amount of milk is still being ingested. Soft rice cereal and boiled, pureed fruit are ideal to start with. It is a good idea to add some formula or breast milk to give the new food a familiar taste.It may take some time for the swallowing reflex to be mastered. The first few feeds will most likely end up all over the child’s face, but with this will improve with practice. When the baby becomes more proficient at eating, you can introduce lumpy items such as bananas, and blend different ingredients.
Independent eating should start at 8 – 9 months, with the introduction of finger food. This is a great time for both of you, as the baby realises it can control what it consumes and discovers the endless amount of fun that can be had playing with food. Good options include small sandwiches, pasta, bits of cheese and soft fruit. Avoid anything which is a potential choking risk, such as nuts and popcorn. Always watch your child closely during meals and make sure you know how to help if anything gets stuck in the throat.
If you start solids earlier than 6 months, it is a good idea to sterilise feeding equipment, but after this time is not necessary. Wash utensils in hot soapy water, keep all surfaces clean and use a disinfectant spray on the highchair. You will probably find a broom, dustpan and brush to be essential items also!
For a very young baby, you should sterilise all feeding utensils and equipment, but after 6 months just try to keep everything clean and hygienic. You will need to wipe down the high chair regularly, so have a disinfectant spray handy and be prepared to sweep and even mop the surrounding floor area several times a day.
If you prefer to make all meals yourself, simply boil ingredients and puree with a kitchen whizz or stick blender. Once your child is able to chew and cope with lumps, you can mash instead and by one year of age, you only need to chop items into small pieces. Many parents prefer the convenience of ready made food, which is widely available and can be bought in supermarkets.
Most importantly, feeding time should be about having fun. Babies love playing with food and exploring new tastes and textures, so keep the camera on hand for the classic messy eating shot and enjoy this precious stage.
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