A Family Approach to Photos
Your Photo Albums:

Edit Albums
Upload New Pictures
Infant - Month #6 to Toddler - Month #12


Get Weekly Updates on your Child E-Mailed to You
Complete Privacy - Your information will be used by edHelperBaby only and will never be shared with another company.

  Enter your E-MAIL ADDRESS:  
    

How Do I Start My Child Eating Finger Foods?

By Lynn Shear, edHelperBaby

How Do I Start My Child Eating Finger Foods?
           Soon after you start giving your baby solids in the form of pureed fruit and veggies, her growling tummy and grasping fingers will let you know that she now knows that you are not eating the same food from a jar that she is.  She is probably willing to grab food directly from your plate if you do not hand it over.  The transition from bland, creamy jar food to regular table food with all of its textures and tastes can be difficult to maneuver.  However, by keeping a few important things in mind, this can be easy for both of you.

       Between eight and nine months of age, most babies begin displaying signs of readiness for table foods.  These include reaching for your sandwich or grabbing the spoon and attempting to feed themselves.  By this age most babies have also developed the "pincer grip."  This refers to the ability to grab a small object between the forefinger and thumb and is what allows a baby to pick up those Cheerios that will soon cover your floor.

       When your child is ready to make the transition from pureed food to table food, the method of choice is finger foods.  Finger foods are self-defined - they are foods that can easily be picked up with the fingers.  Some foods come already packaged as finger foods, but not all finger foods are ideal for babies.  Finger foods for babies need to be soft and easy to chew.  They need to practically dissolve in the mouth.  This ensures that the baby won't choke.

       Remember, too, that you are laying the foundation for a lifetime of eating habits.  Now is the time to continue to offer healthy foods.  Picture the food pyramid in your head and plan out healthy meals and snacks for both you and your child.  Good choices are fruits, veggies, and grains.  Many fruits are perfect for finger foods because they cut up so well and have a sweet taste that many babies enjoy.  Baked apples and pears are great, as are mangoes, peaches, and watermelons (remove the seeds).  Cooked carrots, green beans, peas (cut in half), sweet potatoes, and broccoli florets are excellent additions to your baby's diet.  Soft crackers, such as graham crackers, lightly toasted bagels or bread, or puffed cereals can also be good first finger foods.  Just make sure that you try them first to make sure that they dissolve well.  Also, make sure that any foods that you give your baby are cut up into pieces that are easy for her to handle.

       There are some foods that are strictly taboo during the first year.  These include hot dogs; popcorn; dried fruits; chunks of nut butters; nuts; whole grapes; hard, gooey, or chewy candy; raisins or other dried fruits; and gum.  Honey has been known to cause botulism in infants, so make sure to wait until after baby is at least a year old to introduce it.  Talk to your pediatrician about other foods that may be best introduced later on, especially if you have a family history of food allergies.  Foods that may cause allergies include citrus fruits, eggs, fish, and nuts.  It's usually best to wait after the baby's first birthday to introduce these, just to make sure.  My own daughter has food allergies and there is no history of them in our family.  You never know when a food allergy will appear, and it is much better to avoid them if at possible.

       Even with the few foods that should wait, there is a world to explore when your child is ready for finger foods.  There are dozens of healthful options just waiting in the aisles of your grocery store or in the bins of your farmer's market.  Be willing to try new foods yourself, and your child will be more likely to be an adventurous, healthy eater.  This phase will open up a lot of new opportunities for you and your child.  You can go to a restaurant or a church potluck or a friend's house for dinner without having to pack a separate meal for your child.  Of course, you still have to take a bib.  And wipes.  And a highchair cover.  And a child-sized plate and spoon.  And a sippy-cup.  And...oh, well.  At least you can leave the jarred food at home!

   


Ask Your Own Question
    

Ask a Question

Give a Suggestion     Contact edHelperBaby
Note: All information on edHelperBaby is of a general nature for educational purposes only.
For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
Your use of this site indicates your agreement to be bound by the Terms of Use.