We just recently started giving our baby oat cereal. She did so well with it we were able to move to purées.
It’s always recommended to give vegetables and meats before fruit so we are following that.
Tonight we went with peas! 🫛
Note: I know there is a ton of controversy with Gerber. We are ok with giving it. Please do what you feel is best for you, your family, and your situation. I don’t want to be part of the mom shamming over purée/food choices ❤️
... Read moreStarting your baby on solids is such a huge milestone, and honestly, a bit of an adventure! I remember the excitement (and a little bit of nervousness!) when we decided it was time to move beyond just milk. After getting our little one comfortable with oat cereal, which went surprisingly well, we naturally progressed to purées. We followed the common advice to introduce vegetables and meats before fruits, which makes a lot of sense to get them accustomed to savory flavors first.
Our first big purée introduction was peas, and it was quite the moment! I remember carefully scooping that organic pea baby food onto a cute purple divided plate with a tiny green baby spoon, just like in the picture. It’s amazing how something so simple can feel so monumental. Peas are great because they're packed with vitamins and fiber, and they have a natural sweetness that babies often enjoy. Seeing those little curious eyes try something new for the first time is truly priceless.
While peas were our first choice, I know many parents, as we did in our research, also explore other nutrient-dense options. For instance, egg yolk puree is a fantastic first food that often comes up in discussions about infant feeding. It's rich in iron, choline, and healthy fats, which are all crucial for a baby's development, especially around 6 months when their iron reserves start to deplete. If you're considering introducing egg yolk, simply hard-boiling an egg, mashing the yolk with a bit of breast milk, formula, or water, makes a wonderfully soft and palatable purée. It’s another excellent option for those first tastes, alongside other popular choices like avocado or sweet potato.
When thinking about diving into the world of solids, timing is key. Most pediatricians recommend starting around 6 months, or when your baby shows clear signs of readiness – like being able to sit up unassisted, showing interest in your food, and losing the tongue-thrust reflex. Setting up a comfortable feeding space, like a sturdy high chair, makes the experience much smoother for both of you. Having a dedicated baby first foods puree spoon and an easy-to-clean baby first foods puree bowl can also make a big difference in managing the inevitable mess!
It’s completely normal for babies to make funny faces, push food out, or not eat much at first. It’s more about exploration and exposure at this stage. Don't get discouraged if they don't love every single purée right away. Our little one certainly had her preferences! Also, remember that every family’s journey is unique. Whether you choose store-bought purées like Gerber (which we're perfectly happy with and find convenient!) or decide to make all your baby's food from scratch, the most important thing is providing nutritious options and creating positive feeding experiences.
There's so much information out there, and sometimes it can feel overwhelming, especially with differing opinions on food choices. But trust your instincts and do what feels right for your family. Enjoy these precious moments as your baby discovers a whole new world of tastes and textures!