Baby's first year : Feeding Tips
- The best time to introduce solids to your baby
is when you both are relaxed. There is not much point
trying to introduce something new to a hungry and tired
child
- Never force feed your baby. He knows his
appetite better than you do
- If he refuses a food today, offer again after
a few days. He may like it now.
- While feeding your baby, protect your baby's clothes
with a bib and cover the floor with some sheets or paper.
Eating can be messy
- Try to introduce a new food during lunch
rather than dinner. If your baby doesn't take to it very
well and feels uneasy, at least you won't be up all night
trying to console him.
- Juices are best avoided as they tend to fill
up the stomach, thus compromising on more nutritious
food. If your child is eating fresh fruits and water,
there is no real need for juice.
- When your child shows interest in feeding,
encourage him to participate. It may be more messy
but is important for him.
- Try to make meals a family affair.
- Don't mix foods he hates with foods he loves. He will
end up hating both. Respect his tastes.
- Encourage your child to drink from a beaker
from six months. Ideally, he should give up the bottle by
his first birthday.
- Don't spend too much time preparing your
baby's food. If he doesn't eat it, you will be very
disappointed.
- Don't offer too many alternatives. Your child
will get into the habit of getting something better if he
refuses.