Formula feeding

Using the Bottle

Introducing a Cup

Introducing Table Food

Weaning

Breastfeeding

Introducing a Cup

The six month old, who is sitting up unsupported and is using both hands for play is developmentally ready to begin learning to drink from a cup. Start with a small amount of breast milk, or formula in the cup, hold baby on your lap and show her how to drink. Small amounts of apple, pear or other mild juice may be offered in the cup. Infants who are eating a good variety of fruits and vegetables have no nutritional need for juice, so do not offer more than four ounces a day. This is also a good time to introduce plain water.

Introducing Table Food:

By nine months old the infant should be getting himself into and out of the sitting position, playing with toys with both hands, bringing toys to his mouth, and grabbing for the spoon during feedings. Now is the time to bring the child to the table at meal time with other family members, if you have not already done so. The nine month old is eager to observe other family members and to try to do as they do. He is ready to try self-feeding with a spoon. He is ready to start soft table foods. His digestive system is ready for wheat and mixed grains. Start with small bits of soft fruit such as bananas or vegetables such as soft cooked green beans. Other good finger foods include bits of toast, arrowroot biscuits or other teething biscuits, unsalted soda crackers, cheese cubes, and other fruits and vegetables. He will be interested in what others are eating and willing to try new foods.

Understand your child's chewing skills and help him progress as quickly as he is able, but do not push him to go too fast. Teeth are not necessary for good chewing skills or the introduction of table foods. Gagging is a good skill to have at this age. Learn the difference between gagging and choking. A parent who panics over gagging will scare the child and she may not progress as well with foods as she should. Gagging is the way a child prevents a choking incident.

As the child's chewing and swallowing ability progresses, mashed and chopped table food from the family table may be introduced. Spices and herbs are OK. The child from nine months to twelve months is usually a good eater, interested in a variety of tastes and textures. Enjoy this stage and offer as many new foods as you and he are willing to try.

By the child's first birthday, whole cow's milk may be offered in the cup. Formula may be discontinued unless needed because of a medical condition. Breastfeeding may be tapered off to just "comfort feedings"; solid foods should be the main source of nutrition after one year of age - breastmilk just a supplement.

Whole eggs and egg whites may be offered after the first birthday, as well as strawberries and other potential allergens. Peanut butter appears to be a very potent allergen and should not be given until after the third birthday. The child is still developing chewing skills though, so do not offer foods which are easy to choke on such as: nuts, seeds, popcorn, raw vegetables, hot dogs, raisins, grapes, peanut butter, meat sticks, hard candies or lollipops. Children do not need fruit flavored, sweetened beverages, fruit punches, or soda. Use plain water for thirst.