Starting Solids

Starting solids is an exciting time. For baby it’s exciting because they get to try new flavors and textures, and they finally get to join in on the fun they’ve been watching everyone have. Have you noticed how babies get major FOMO for food when they are ready to start solids? This transition is also exciting for parents and caregivers because they get to introduce baby to a whole new culinary world. Seeing the look on baby’s face as they try a lemon for the first time is something to look forward to.

As usual, we at the Baby Store UG would like to help you make this transition as smooth as possible. We would like to stand by your side, hold your hand, and guide you as you embark on this thrilling journey. In order to do that, we’ve compiled this list of things to remember when introducing solids to baby.

When

Most health professionals agree that 6 months is the ideal time to introduce baby to solids. Some babies may be ready sooner, others later. Watch baby for signs of readiness. Some signs of readiness for solids include

- Being able to sit up unsupported

- Being able to pick things up between fingers and thumb (pincer grip)

- Baby losing the tongue-thrust reflex where they push food out of their mouths with their tongue

How

It is best to offer baby food when they are relaxed and in a good mood. Make sure they are not too hungry and throwing a fit. A good time to introduce baby to food is when the whole family is at the table. They will pick up on ques from other family members and be more willing to try the food.

Make sure baby is sitting up, either in a highchair or on someone’s lap. Don’t forget a bib as, most likely, more food will end up on baby than in baby. We recommend the Tommee Tippee Easi Roll silicone bibs. They are easy to clean, adjustable so they stay comfy on baby’s neck, and they have a food catcher at the bottom so the mess stays contained.

Offer small amounts of food when starting out. Remember, in the beginning it’s more about exploration than making sure baby is full. In fact, it is recommended to breastfeed or bottle feed baby after the meal since they will probably not eat much. As baby grows and becomes more familiar with food and eating, increase the serving sizes. Tommee Tippee Essentials Food Pots are the perfect serving size for baby. They come with lids so you can safely store baby’s food whether on the go or at home.

Always follow baby’s ques to see when they have had enough to eat, never force feed a baby. Turning away from the food, losing interest, spitting out food, and not opening their mouths for another bite are all signs that baby is full.

If baby doesn’t seem too enthused about a certain food, try it again at a later time. It may take a few tries before they warm up to new flavors.

Don’t overwhelm baby with new flavors. Introduce one food at a time and wait 3-7 days in between each new food. Doing this will also help you spot any food allergies baby might have.

What

Start baby off with whole, healthy foods in order to develop good eating habits. Vegetables such sweet potatoes, carrots, peas, and pumpkin are all-time favorites. Make sure vegetables are washed, peeled, and cooked until soft. Soft fruits like bananas and avocados are also great introductory foods as they require no cooking and are already soft. Just make sure they are ripe and washed well. Meat such as chicken and fish are also great first baby foods. Cook them well and make sure to remove all bones from the fish. Beans and baby cereals are also great solids to start baby on their culinary journey.

Don’t limit yourself to cereals. While they are convenient, and easy first foods, the more “real” food you introduce baby to the more receptive they will be of different textures and foods as they grow.

Remember, however, babies under 1 should not be given honey as it carries the risk of botulism.

Water

Before 6 months baby gets all the water they need from breastmilk and/or formula. At 6 months it is safe to start offering baby some water. Again, moderation is key here. Offer baby a small amount of water in an easy to use cup. We recommend the Munchkin Miracle 360 cup. The spoutless design is recommended by dentists, and it allows baby to drink from any side. The cup is also spill-proof, easy for baby to hold, and easy to clean.

The most important thing to remember is to enjoy the adventure. They only get one “first time” with each new food they try, so be present in the moment and savor it. Before you know it they will be pros at this eating thing.