Learn how to teach your baby to self-feed with ease: start with liquids, choose the right time, start with easy-to-handle foods, encourage finger foods, use an open cup, and be patient.
Teaching your baby to feed themselves can be a little tricky, but with these simple tips, you'll become a pro in no time.
Step 1: Start With Liquids and Purees
Before solid foods, you should start with liquids and purees. Begin with breastmilk or formula and gradually introduce purees such as applesauce, bananas, or sweet potatoes. Once your baby is comfortable with the purees, you can start introducing thicker and lumpier foods.
Step 2: Make Sure Your Baby is Ready
Your baby will give you cues when they are ready to start self-feeding. Make sure they can sit up, hold their head steady, and have good hand-eye coordination. Don't rush the process as every baby develops differently.
Step 3: Choose the Right Time and Place
Pick a time when your baby is alert and in a good mood. Make feeding time fun, sit together at the table, and make sure the environment is calm and quiet. Always supervise your baby during feeding time. I usually keep the same time to feed my son at 11:00 pm to keep him on a schedule.
Step 4: Start with Easy-to-Handle Foods
Starting with easy-to-handle foods like fruits and vegetables is the best way to begin self-feeding. Cut the foods into small pieces and allow your baby to hold and explore them. Avoid foods that are difficult to swallow such as popcorn, nuts, and candy.
Step 5: Encourage Finger Foods
Finger foods such as Cheerios, small pieces of cheese, and sliced fruit can help your baby develop their pincer grasp, which helps with fine motor skills. Encourage your baby to pick up the food using their thumb and pointer finger.
Step 6: Use an Open Cup
Drinking from a cup is an essential skill your baby needs to learn. Start with an open cup, which is better for coordination and can prevent dental problems later on. Allow your baby to hold the cup and guide it to their mouth.
Step 7: Be Patient
Learning to feed themselves can be exhausting for your baby, and it may take some time. Be patient and do not force your baby to eat foods they do not like. Keep trying different foods and textures, and eventually, they will get the hang of it.
Lamar Andrews Daddy Prep Dads built different
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