Introducing solid foods to your baby

Introducing solid foods to your baby is an exciting milestone for both you and your little one. However, it’s important to remember that every baby is different, so there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Here are some general tips to consider when introducing solids:

1. Wait until your baby is ready: Most medical professionals recommend waiting until your baby is around six months old and showing signs of readiness. These signs include sitting up unassisted, holding their head up, showing interest in food, and being able to move food to the back of their mouth and swallow

2. Start with single-ingredient purees: When first introducing solids, start with a single-ingredient puree. Some good first foods include mashed sweet potato, pear, or avocado. Offer a small amount of food on a spoon and watch for any signs of allergy or intolerance.

3. Introduce new foods slowly: Introduce new foods one at a time and wait a few days before introducing another new food. This will help you identify any potential food allergies or intolerances.

4. Let your baby guide you: Let your baby guide the process. If they seem uninterested or refuse to eat, don’t force it. If they’re enjoying a certain food, continue offering it to them.

5. Be patient: It can take many tries for a baby to develop a taste for new food. Don’t give up if your baby doesn’t seem to like something at first.

6. Breastmilk or formula is still important": Remember that breastmilk or formula is still the most important source of nutrition for your baby until they are around 12 months old. Solids should complement, not replace, breastmilk or formula.

Foods Recommended to avoid

There are some foods that should be avoided until your baby is older, such as:

Honey: it can contain bacteria that cause infant botulism.
Cow's milk: it doesn't provide enough nutrients for a baby's growth and can cause milk allergy or intolerance.
Choking hazards: such as popcorn, nuts, hard candies, and raw carrots.
Highly allergenic foods: such as egg whites, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish.

It's also recommended to avoid added sugar, salt, and processed foods. Consult with your doctor before introducing new foods to your baby's diet.
In Australia, you can also consider getting advice from your doctor or a qualified nutritionist. They can help you with guidance on what to introduce, when to introduce it, how much to offer, and answer any questions you might have. Overall, the key is to follow your baby’s lead and enjoy this exciting milestone together.

WHY SILICONE FEEDING SETS ARE THE BEST WAY TO START YOUR SOLIDS JOURNEY

1. Safety: Silicone is hypoallergenic and free from harmful chemicals like BPA, phthalates, and PVC. This makes it a safe material for babies to use during feeding time.

2. Durability: Silicone is a sturdy material that can withstand high temperatures and rough handling. It also doesn't crack, fade, or scratch easily, so it can last for a long time.

3. Easy to clean: Silicone feeding sets are non-stick and dishwasher-safe, making them easy to clean and maintain. This saves parents the hassle of washing dishes by hand or worrying about harmful bacteria lingering on surfaces.

4. Soft and gentle: Silicone is a soft and flexible material that won't irritate or hurt a baby's delicate skin. This means babies can enjoy feeding time without any discomfort or pain.

5. Versatile: Silicone feeding sets come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making them suitable for different stages of a baby's development. They can be used for feeding solids, liquids, and even snacks, providing versatility and convenience for parents.