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Many parents are amazed at how quickly their babies grow up. And one of the biggest steps in their development is the transition to solid food. However, if this is your first child, you may have some questions about when and how to begin. The infant care guide below offers safety tips for helping your baby with this exciting milestone.

A Guide to Introducing Solid Food

When to Start

Most pediatricians agree that infants are ready for solids anywhere between four and six months. Their digestive systems have had time to develop, their ability to swallow is stronger, and they are also able to hold themselves more upright.

Infants ready to explore new tastes may also be curious about food. They may watch as you eat and will open their mouths in response. However, in some cases, your infant care doctor may suggest starting earlier or later, depending on the baby's weight, which should have doubled from birth and lay somewhere around 13 pounds.

What to Do

Start with single-ingredient pureed options. Avoid seasonings, especially salt and sugar. Some parents choose infant cereal as a first food, but many pediatricians agree that vegetables or protein are just as beneficial for infant care. However, keep the consistency paste-like until your child gets older and more practiced at eating and swallowing.

infant careAlways feed your baby in a high chair while they are wearing a bib. Use a soft-tipped infant spoon and place one to two teaspoons in a bowl. Spoon from the bowl and not from a jar to avoid bacteria from their mouth contaminating unused portions. Follow your baby’s cues; they will turn away from the spoon, clench their mouth shut, or lean back in the chair when full. Discard open containers after two days.

Introduce ingredients one at a time, so you can narrow down trouble if an allergic reaction occurs. Signs of food allergies include rashes, hives, trouble breathing, wheezing, swelling, vomiting, and diarrhea. As for allergenic foods like nuts, eggs, and fish, many doctors agree that introducing them early staves off problems. However, speak to your doctor about your family’s history.

 

If you're in need of infant care, turn to Merry Manor School of Childhood. Located in Lincoln, NE, the staff brings more than 70 years of combined experience. Not only will they make sure that your baby is well-rested and fed, writing up this information daily for your benefit, but they will also make sure that your son’s or daughter’s child development gets off to the right start, by introducing hands-on activities and mental stimulation. Visit them online for a look at their daycare and preschool options. Then call (402) 466-2215 to talk to a representative about enrollment. 

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