Health Bites: Babies

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Feeding Tips

• Continue to offer 5 to 6 feedings of breastmilk or iron-fortified formula when starting solid foods.
• Begin giving small amounts of solid foods. Start with a teaspoon and then increase slowly.
• Use an infant spoon.
• When using baby food bought at the store, take some out of the jar and warm.
• Puree foods prepared for the family meal and serve them to your baby.
• If your baby doesn't like a food, don't force them to eat it. Simply offer it again in a few weeks. It may take 15-20 tries before your baby will like certain foods.

Finger Foods

These may be given between 10 and 12 months when your baby wants to feed himself. Offer soft, moist foods. Cut foods into tiny pieces to prevent choking. Try:

• Mashed potatoes
• Cooked vegetables
• Cheese wedges
• Crackers
• Cereal
• Spaghetti with sauce