Hello, lovely parents! Emma here. I'm a paediatric feeding therapist, passionate foodie, and mum. As we gear up for One Fine Baby in Sydney this July, I’m excited to share some of my tried-and-true tips for introducing solids to your baby. These tips are designed to make the transition smooth and enjoyable for both you and your little one.
Stable Base, Happy Face
Imagine trying to sip on an overflowing espresso martini while teetering on a bar stool with your feet dangling in the air. Not the most relaxing experience, right? Now, think about how much easier it is when you’re nestled into a comfy dining chair with a backrest and your feet firmly planted on the ground. The same principle applies to our little ones as they embark on their solids journey.
Ensure your baby is securely supported in their high chair. Use towels or cushions to wedge them in, providing support for their tummy, tootsies, and tush. This stability helps them focus on the exciting new task of eating rather than struggling to stay upright. A stable base equals a happy face!
Spoon Play Before D-Day
Introducing a new concept to your baby can sometimes feel like throwing them into the deep end of the pool. But what if they had a little swim practice beforehand? The same goes for starting solids.
Give your baby their baby-friendly (Joyfull) silicone spoons to play with, mouth, and hold a few days or weeks before you actually introduce food. This playtime helps them become familiar with the spoon as an object, making it less foreign when food is finally added. The transition becomes about curiosity and fun, rather than facing an unknown challenge.
Keep It Fresh – Mix It Up!
Variety is the spice of life, and this is especially true when it comes to your baby’s diet. Whether you’re going the Baby-Led Weaning (BLW) route or opting for purees, don’t be afraid to mix it up. Offer a range of fruits, vegetables, carbs, and proteins to keep things interesting and nutritious.
Remember to steer clear of allergens and no-no’s for babies, like honey. Think of it as creating a ready-to-go list of safe, delicious options. Your little one’s taste buds will appreciate the diversity, and you’ll be setting the stage for a more adventurous eater in the future.
Memories Over Mouthfuls
It’s easy to get caught up in counting how many bites your baby takes, but let’s shift the focus to creating joyful mealtime memories. Babies are unpredictable—one day they might devour everything in sight, and the next, they might throw it all on the ground.
Instead of stressing over each meal, observe patterns over a week. Celebrate the moments of curiosity, the giggles, and the new experiences. Count the memories, not the bites. After all, these early mealtime experiences lay the foundation for a lifelong relationship with food.
Show Them the Ropes
Babies are natural imitators, and they learn best by watching and mimicking their parents. Make mealtime a family affair by eating together and showing them how it’s done. Try the puree or nibble on a slice of banana in front of them. Your little one will be fascinated by your actions and eager to join in.
Eating together not only teaches them how to handle food but also strengthens your bond. It’s a win-win situation—your baby learns essential skills, and you get to enjoy quality family time.
Starting solids is an exciting milestone in your baby’s development. With these tips, you can make the transition smoother and more enjoyable for both you and your little one. Remember, it’s all about creating positive experiences, exploring new tastes, and building a foundation for a healthy relationship with food. As you embark on this journey, keep these tips in mind, and savour every moment.
Whether it’s the stable base ensuring your baby’s comfort, the playful introduction of spoons, the variety in their diet, the focus on memories over mouthfuls, or the shared mealtime experiences, each step is a joyful opportunity to connect and grow together. Happy feeding, lovely parents! See you at One Fine Baby in Sydney this July!