Dos and Don’ts for Baby’s First Foods

Introducing solids to your baby can be both exciting and daunting. There are so many options and things to consider because you want to do this right.

Here are some dos and don’ts when it comes to baby’s first foods that you should be following:

Do Visit the Pediatrician before First Foods

Your baby’s pediatrician knows them very well, so it is important to do a consultation before you start giving your baby solids. 

They’ll do a quick check up and make sure your baby is ready and will also give you some great tips to start with.

Do Follow Your Baby’s Cues 

Your baby will give you lot’s of cues such showing a desire to eat the food you’re eating, being able to sit up without support and being able to hold things with their thumb and forefinger. 

These cues are a sign that your baby is developmentally ready to try solid food. 

Don’t use other baby’s as a cue because every baby develops differently and at their own pace.

Do Experiment With Different Flavors and Textures when giving Baby First Foods 

It is important to keep introducing new foods and different textures to your baby after every 3-4 days. 

By doing this, you will realize they might like some things more than the other, and will look forward to meal time.

You can also incorporate spices and herbs to the food for different flavors.

Don’t Use Salt in Baby’s Food

You should avoid using salt till the baby is past the age of 1. This is because their bodies might have a difficult time processing the salt.

Other mild spices like garlic and herbs are okay.

Don’t Think About Replacing Breastmilk or Formula

Your baby’s main source of nutrition is still breast milk or formula, so your main goal is not to switch to solids as the primary source of food but simply to let your baby get familiar with it.

Don’t Worry About the Mess Baby Makes 

Introducing solids is going to be a messy journey but don’t worry about it. Let your baby play with the food, and let them deal with it on their own. 

Solid food time should be a fun time for them, so it is important that they really get their hands in there and get a feel for the food (quite literally).

Don’t Be Forceful with Feeding Baby

The last thing you want to do is force your baby to eat something. It is okay if they are not eating something that is healthy for them, you can try that food again after some time.

You don’t want to create any sense of pressure for baby, and just let them do their own thing with the plate.

Don’t Be Stressed about Feeding Baby

Some babies can be very picky eaters and may not show liking towards food. 

This is normal, and it is not something you should worry about. You should keep introducing different things and different combinations of food. 

Eventually, your baby will find something they really like.