First Bites

There's a lot of talk about how and when to introduce the first "solid" (really mashed up) foods to babies. Introducing food too early can increase a child's chance of being overweight, but waiting until they're too late can make them picky and hesitant to try new foods. There are so many pros and cons either way, that it's one of the many decisions that doesn't have a "perfect" answer.

With our daughter we decided to introduce foods between 4 and 5 months, when she was sitting well with support. Four months is the earliest a baby should have food other than breastmilk or formula, but there is definitely not a nutritional need for other foods until a baby is at least 6 months old.

Here are some rules we went by for feeding our baby:

1. Take your time. Wait 2-3 days between each new food so that if baby has a reaction you know what caused it
2. Spice it up. Don't be scared of new flavors. Try adding very small amounts of spices (they're stronger than you'd expect!), like cinnamon, garlic, and chili powder (watch out for spicier chilis, such as paprika and cayenne).
3. Play it safe. No egg whites or  honey under the age of one, and no nut/peanut products or shellfish under the age of two. Also avoid any allergens that run  in your family until the child is at least one, or whenever your doctor recommends introducing them
4. Try, try again. If baby doesn't seem to like the foods your offering, don't force it-- but don't give up! Try offering it again in a week or so, maybe mixing it with a fruit or veggie baby already likes.
5. The Tooth Truth. Many parents worry their child won't handle solid foods until they have enough teeth. More than presence of teeth, developmental stages are important for introducing purees and finger foods. When baby is sitting with support, start offering thin purees. Slowly try thicker purees, moving to soft textures like mushed bananas. When baby is crawling and using a "pincer grasp" she is ready to try finger foods. As you introduce table food use the general rule that if you can crush it with your own fingers, your baby can crush it with her gums. Offer small portions and make sure baby's mouth is empty between bites.
6. Have fun! More than teaching your baby to like peas and carrots, you're truly teaching your baby to like eating. Encourage your baby to explore new flavors, and enjoy the experience! Make sure you have plenty of time to feed your baby so you aren't rushed or stressed, and try not to worry too much about the mess.