Baby Food Milestones:

Introducing solid foods is an exciting milestone in your baby‘s development! From first tastes to self-feeding, every stage plays a role in building healthy eating habits and supporting growth and development. Here’s a simple guide to help you navigate baby food milestones and know what to expect along the way!

 Stage 1: First Tastes (4-6 Months) 

At around 4 to 6 months, your baby may be ready for their first bites of solid food, but milk (breast or formula) is still their main source of nutrition. Look for signs of readiness, like sitting up with support, showing interest in food, and losing the tongue-thrust reflex.

What to Offer:

• Smooth, single-ingredient purees (mashed avocado, sweet potato, banana)
• Iron-rich foods (oatmeal, pureed meats, lentils)
• Thin consistency, gradually thickening as baby adjusts

Tip: Introduce one new food at a time and wait 3-5 days before adding another to check for allergies.

Stage 2: Exploring New Flavors (6-8 Months) 

As your baby gets used to solids, they can start exploring a variety of flavors and textures. Their digestive system is developing, and they’re ready for more nutrient-dense foods.

What to Offer:

• Thicker purees and mashed foods (pumpkin, peas, applesauce)
• Soft, small finger foods (ripe banana slices, avocado chunks)
• Protein-rich options (yogurt, tofu, scrambled egg yolk)

Tip: Start offering a sippy cup with water alongside meals to encourage hydration.

Stage 3: Self-Feeding Begins (8-10 Months)

At this stage, babies develop a pincer grasp (using thumb and forefinger), allowing them to pick up small foods. They’ll also start chewing better, even if they don’t have many teeth yet!

What to Offer:

• Soft, bite-sized finger foods (steamed carrots, soft pasta, diced fruit)
• Small pieces of cooked protein (shredded chicken, beans, flaky fish)
• More variety of spices and mild seasonings

Tip: Encourage self-feeding with baby-led weaning (BLW) techniques by offering safe, soft foods they can grab and explore.

Stage 4: Mini Mealtimes (10-12 Months)

Your baby is now eating a variety of textures and flavors and joining in on family meals! At this point, they should be having three meals and 1-2 snacks per day, while still getting breast milk or formula.

What to Offer:

• Chopped or shredded versions of family meals (soft meats, pasta, cooked veggies)
• Healthy snacks (whole grain toast, cheese cubes, soft fruit slices)
• Nut butters (thinly spread on toast or mixed into oatmeal)

Tip: Offer a spoon but let your baby explore self-feeding, it get’s messy but great for development!

Beyond the First Year: Transitioning to Toddler Foods

As your baby turns one, they’ll transition to whole milk, family meals, and more independent eating. Keep offering a variety of healthy foods and let them explore different textures and flavors.

Key Nutrients to Focus On:

• Iron (lean meats, lentils, spinach)
• Healthy fats (avocado, olive oil, nut butters)
• Calcium (dairy, fortified plant-based options)

     Tip: Keep meal experiences positive, don’t force foods and let your little one develop their own preferences.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Journey!

Introducing solids is a fun, messy, and exciting time for both you and your baby. Every child is different, so follow their cues, be patient, and enjoy the process. A well-fed baby is a happy baby!

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Love from Bio Baby Kitchen x