There is a unique kind of delight that comes with watching your baby take their first bites of food. The messy smiles, the hesitant licks, the flying spoons, and sometimes the outright rejection, its all part of the journey. But behind the mashed potatoes and banana bits is something much deeper, a foundation that could shape your child’s relationship with food for life.
Introducing solids is not just a milestone, it is a mindset shift. Its about nourishing your baby, not just feeding them. And if you are in that season of motherhood, wondering if you are doing it right or not, take a deep breath. There is grace in learning.
After raising 3 raising three little ones with my youngest almost making 3,Here are some of the key lessons and practical tips I have picked up along the way.
Start with Veggies and greens early and often.
Usually around 6 months, vegetables are a good place to start. Go for soft options like carrots, green beans or steamed broccoli. Don’t be discouraged by the “yuck” face on the first try or spitting it out. Babies need time to get used to new flavors. You are training their taste buds.
Tip: Keep offering the same veggies over time. Sometimes it takes 8-10 tries before the baby accepts the new taste. So patience is key.
Keep it Simple, Real and Whole.
Your baby doesn’t need complicated meals or special baby-branded foods. The best option is natural foods. Think mashed avocado, steamed greens, sized apples. No additives or no salt.
They are not eating for entertainment but they are eating for nourishment and growth.
My last born Royal loves her eggplant and cucumber and Regin loves greens more than any candy.
Delay Sugars, Their future self will thank you.
Skip the sweetened yogurt, flavored cereals, biscuits and juices for now. Babies don’t need sugar at this stage and introducing it early can create cravings that last into toddlerhood and beyond. If you must, offer plain yogurt and sweeten naturally with fruit.
It would be best to stick to breast milk, formula and water for hydration.
Try Baby-Led Weaning
Baby Led weaning allows your baby to feed themselves from the start. Soft, easy to hold foods like avocado slices, ripe bananas are perfect as you cut into appropriate sizes. Not only will it improve their motor skills and also introduce them to a healthy attitude towards food.
Tip: It's messy. It's slow. But it's so worth it. And yes, it's safe when done right. Always supervise and learn the difference between gagging and choking.
Embrace the Picky Phases, If Any.
Some meals will be hits, others will end up on the floor. Don’t rush to cook alternatives. Babies don’t always fall in love with food on the first go. And that is okay. Serve the same foods, make a weekly meal plan, stay consistent and trust their hunger cues.
Tip: You decide what is on the plate. They decide how much they eat. That’s a healthy dynamic to preserve.
You are building habits, not just feeding meals.
This stage is about more than just getting nutrients in. Its about helping your child develop a healthy, confident relationship with food. Sit together. Let them also see what you eat. Let them explore. Talk about colors, textures and tastes. Mealtime can also be connection time.
One Last Thing.
Every baby is different. Some dive into solids like they have been waiting for it all along, others need more time. Trust your instincts, do your research and lean into a community.
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