Making the Transition to Solid Baby Food

When it comes to solid food, in the beginning it is used in addition to the regular bottle or breast feeding. Most babies begin eating some solids at 6 months some a little earlier, it all depends on your child's appetite. Some babies will begin eating more and require larger feedings. My rule of thumb is usually when they start drinking more than 6 oz bottles of milk, they are usually ready to start on a little strained food. You don't want a hungry baby on your hands.

Your doctor will tell you to not give your baby cow's milk until they're a year old. This is because the baby can develop an allergy to milk products and it can cause certain respiratory problems as well. So for the first 12 months, no milk or dairy, substitute baby formula or breast milk mixed into baby cereal. Breast feeding is best for baby in the beginning.Some women are not able to breast feed and that's OK too. Baby formula is formulated to be easily digestible and is the next best thing to breast milk.

Babies are picky at first and make take time to get used to things like baby cereal. Most don't like it at first. As you go along eventually you can add a little fruit or juice mixed into the cereal to give it more flavor. Baby foods are pretty bland so you will need to be creative.

You will still be feeding regularly with the bottle or breast feeding. Introducing solids is done is small amounts and usually starts off with the basic baby cereal first. One or two feedings a day (serving size is about 2 tbs.of dry cereal mixed with a little formula, breast milk or water. This will be a little difficult at first since the baby isn't used to the feel of the spoon in their mouth and its a little harder to swallow from a spoon. Early attempts are usually sucked off the end of the spoon, until they get used to it. Once they are OK with the cereal feedings you can begin to offer a little strained fruits or vegetables. But only 1 at a time, again due to food allergies.

When you begin feeding the strained fruits and vegetables start with the smallest jar you can find to avoid waste. In the beginning baby will usually only take a few bites, equaling 2 or 3 spoonfuls at a setting so you don't want any going to waste. Baby food can be stored in the refrigerator but it tends to turn watery. You can also puree your own fruits and vegetables and freeze small portions to feed to your baby later.

I use to save my leftovers from dinners and puree in the blender for baby food.If you have a food processor this is a lot quicker, but a good blender will work too. Freeze in a freezer tray, pop out cubes when frozen and store in plastic bag. When feeding pull out 2 frozen cubes and reheat for 1 serving.

Informational Sources:
My own experience ( raising 3 kids)