It seems only yesterday he was a tiny six pounds. Back then we were feeding him two ounces every two hours. Those bottles grew to four then six then eight ounces. Then it was time for solids, and that part turned out to be fairly easy. You can either make your own or turn to the market for any number of brands of finely pureed fruits and vegetables.
Now we've worked up to stage two, the bigger jars and more interesting combinations. But on the horizon looms the day when what's on our plate also ends up, in some form, on his. But when and how to make the transition to table foods?
As with all things baby, there's no one standard. But in general, here are some of the signs, according to wholesomebabyfood.com:
- Doesn't want to be spoon fed
- Turns his head or spits out thin purees
- Tries to grab his spoon and feed himself
- Mashes lumps and textures with no problem Has developed a pincher grasp
- 8 Months of age or older
KidsHealth.org has this advice on things you can try: Melt in the mouth crackers and cereals ("Puffs"); well-cooked and mashed fruits and veggies; soft and cottage cheeses; tofu; ripe banana and well-done pasta.
In some cases, you can mash everything up by hand. Some people choose to get a food mill and put everything through to grind.
Things to stay away from until you get a doctor's clearance are eggs, citrus, seafood, nuts (including peanut butter) and honey. Also hold off whole grapes, raw veggies, hard fruits and cheeses, hot dogs, popcorn, raisins and hard candies. While they may seem to be a natural part of a kiddie menu, for now they can present a choking hazard.
The other advice mirrors probably what you saw when baby first started pureed foods. Some babies may take to table food quickly. But others may storm and need to go back to purees and bottles for a little while. Try to make the new experience fun, letting your baby hold his own spoon and play with his food. The first few times you may have to actually feed him twice - once for his exploration and play, the second time to be sure he gets some nutrition into his stomach.
The first few outings may mean some cleanups and frustration. But soon enough you'll be able to cook one set of meals and even contemplate a family dessert!
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