Fun at feeding time

We hear from moms all the time about how much they treasure feeding time. Happily, there’s a lot you can do to nurture your baby’s love of food and have a great time along the way.

Here are a few tips for encouraging your baby’s love affair with the spoon:

• Start slowly. Don’t expect your little one to clean her plate. Even two baby spoonfuls are a major accomplishment.
• Offer small, frequent feedings. Remember, babies have tiny tummies. One tablespoon of any one food at a meal is a general guide for an 8-month-old.
• Get in tune with your baby. Watch for a time when he’s hungry and in the mood to try something new. Above all, don’t force-feed.
• Make eating social. Seat the newest member of the family at the dinner table with the rest of the gang. She may be motivated to copy your actions.
• Offer finger foods. Match feeding strategies to your baby’s developmental milestones. Around 8 months, expect the "do-it-myself" stage to commence.
• Show by example. Try a bit of baby food yourself and make a big “yum-yum” facial expression. You may feel silly, but your baby will follow your lead.
• Encourage dipping. Babies love dipping foods. Make nutritious dips, such as a mild guacamole and yogurt dip.
• Increase variety with familiarity. Your child is more likely to eat something new if it’s paired with something he already likes.
• Think outside the (cereal) box. While rice cereal is the most popular first food, your baby may not like the taste. Ask your doctor if you can offer your little one an alternative, like puréed sweet potatoes.
• Practice what you preach. If you eat healthy meals and snacks, chances are your child will, too.
• Keep an eye out for stop signs. When your baby tightens his lips, for example, it’s an undeniable "No more!”
• Don’t give up. It may take some time, but finicky babies may learn to like certain foods as they become more familiar with them. Keep trying!
• Stay safe. Avoid foods your baby is more likely to choke on, like:
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Popcorn kernels
  • Chunks of meat
  • Hard beans
  • Raw vegetables such as carrots
  • Raw fruits such as apple cubes
  • Whole grapes
  • Hard candy

Relax. Remember, nobody’s perfect! Just do the best you can to encourage healthy eating…and relax, because you’re doing just fine.