Starting solids is one of the most exciting milestones in your baby's first year. But, your baby will naturally guide you through each stage when they're ready. Here's a simple roadmap to help you understand what textures to offer and when:
Stage 1: Smooth and Easy Textures
Around 6 months, when your baby shows signs of readiness for solids, it's time to start with silky-smooth textures. Think mashed avocado, creamy banana, or gentle soups that glide easily off the spoon. These first foods help your baby learn the basic skill of swallowing something thicker than milk.
Stage 2: Lumpy or Chunkier Foods
Once your baby is comfortable moving food around their mouth and swallowing confidently, you can introduce some texture! Soft scrambled eggs or meals with gentle lumps are perfect at this stage.
Stage 3: Soft Finger Foods
When your little one can pick up and grasp objects well, it's finger food time! Sliced avocado, potato wedges, and strips of toast are wonderful first foods for self-feeding. This stage encourages self-feeding and helps develop fine motor skills while giving your little one more independence at mealtimes.
Stage 4: Variety of Shapes and Textures
By now, your baby is a little eating pro who can handle different textures, chew effectively, and swallow with ease. Pasta, rice, sliced meat, and meatballs are all on the menu. This stage is about building confidence and enjoying family meals together.
Embrace The Journey
There's no perfect timeline or one-size-fits-all approach to introducing solids. At Plate & Play, we offer meals across all these texture stages, thoughtfully developed from the heart to match your baby's needs and abilities. You're nailing this parenting thing, and we're cheering you on! 🧡
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