Food for Babies and Toddlers

As your baby grows, the time will come when you will have to start on feeding solid food. This is a very important step in your baby’s development and well-being. As you are aware, babies who are fed nutritious, healthy diets grow into stronger kids and better adjusted eaters than those who are fed poor diets.

Before you start feeding your baby or toddler solid food, it is wise for you to be aware of which foods to begin with and how and which common foods are to be avoided until a certain age.

Solid food should not be given too early to a baby as they may develop serious food allergies. It is recommended by doctors to introduce solid foods between four and six months. Also there are several signs you can look for in your baby to help you decide whether he/she is ready for solid foods. Can your baby sit up without any assistance? Does she reach for what you are eating or seem curious as to what you are eating? If yes, then your baby may be ready for solid food. If your baby pushed the food out with the tongue, wait for a few more weeks and try again. If he/she swallows the food after a few tries, then your baby is probably ready to begin eating solid foods on a regular basis.

Consult your pediatrician before actually beginning to give solid foods. He will also be able to advice you as to what food to begin with. The first food you would be advised to begin with would be fortified baby cereal, e.g. Rice, Barley, Oatmeal mixed with milk (Breast or Formula), etc.  Start with giving cereal once or twice a day. Never force the baby to eat more then he is willing. Remember that your toddler’s primary source of nutrition is still breast milk or formula.

Fruit juices are advised to be given after six months, but you should refrain from giving citrus juices. Stick to food labeled as first food as these are usually smashed without any lumps.  Gradually you can begin giving fruits of vegetables, but it is not advisable to give meats until your toddler is able to chew and swallow without any difficulty.

Wait several days between introducing each new food to give time for any allergies to show for a particular food. Don’t try to force your child to eat food he/she doesn’t prefer, give her food she likes and eventually reintroduce the other food again. Your toddler’s preferences will change as she/he grows.

Make your meals times a pleasant experience for both you and your baby.