Introducing Baby Food Solids to Your Child | Pregnancy
The transition from a milk only diet to one which includes solid foods is an exciting event for parents of young babies. Whether you choose to buy ready made food or cook your own, it is important to ensure that you offer your child nutritionally balanced meals which are appropriate for his or her developmental stage. Baby food solids are easy to prepare or buy and will give your little one all the nutrients required for growth and good health.
Most babies start solids at about 6 months, but some parents choose to introduce them earlier. 4 – 6 months is the recommended time frame, but don’t delay any longer, or you risk depriving your child of vital nutrients, notably iron. Babies develop at different rates, and some are ready to start solid food earlier than others. If your child looks interested in your food, can sit upright in a bouncer or stroller and doesn’t seems completely satisfied after feeds, it may be ready.
Signs that your baby is ready for solids include showing an interest in the food you eat, maybe reaching for it and attempting to mouth it. Some parents find that children who previously slept well at night, become restless and take this as an indication that they are hungry and require supplementation to their diet. It is important that your child is old enough to hold his or her own head up, while in a supported sitting position.
Don’t be disappointed if baby doesn’t seem too enthusiastic about the idea. It may take some time to learn the technique of swallowing and you will probably find that there is a lot more food on the face and the bib than actually gets consumed. This is a great moment to take that messy eating shot, so invaluable in embarrassing your child later in life.
As your baby grows, it is important to introduce different tastes and textures, so try lumpier items, such as mashed bananas, finely blended meat and rice. You can also start mixing different ingredients together.
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.
However, if you haven’t the time nor inclination to make everything yourself, don’t feel guilty. Supermarkets stock a great range of healthy solids in convenient single serve jars, which you can just open and heat.
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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