Introducing your child to a wide variety of foods not only helps create a more adventurous eater, it could actually decrease food allergies later in life.
Finger foods should be bite-sized or precut and quick to dissolve. Also be mindful of the number of pieces you set out. If you place 20 cereal Os in front of your child, they might try to eat them all at once. So, offer just a few at a time. Likewise, this approach can help reduce mess and let your baby feel in control of signaling for more.
Some good finger food ideas:
- O-shaped cereal
- Rice cakes
- Very ripe, peeled pear or banana pieces
- Tofu chunks
- Scrambled eggs
- Well-cooked/canned green beans
- Pasta tubes or shells
- Finely shredded chicken
- French toast or pancakes
- Well-cooked, cubed potatoes or sweet potatoes
Avoid any foods that pose a choking risk. This includes firm pieces of meat or cheese, raw vegetables, popcorn, hot dogs, chewing gum, hard candy, and whole grapes.
Try to introduce a wide variety of foods that your family commonly eats. Experiment with finger food ideas but don’t forget to retry ones your child didn’t seem to like the first time. It may take several attempts before your child develops a taste for something, but it’s fun to see their personality and preferences start to surface during meals.
“My advice to my former self would be to listen to your gut, and the same thing with other moms. Do not try to force something to work that is clearly not working.” – Enfamil mom
