8
months
under one
JUST FOR FUN Your baby is becoming comfortable with eating solid foods now! During this exciting time, we like to say “under one, just for fun” as breastmilk or formula should always remain baby’s primary source of calories & nutrients through their first year. Offering solid foods at this age is about helping baby learn to chew & swallow, as well as introducing new flavors and textures.
Just like Adults...
Your baby’s appetite may change from day to day. One meal she may eat everything in sight, while another she might stop after one bite. Follow her lead when she decides she’s finished with a meal your baby is very good in knowing her hunger & fullness cues!
New Foods
Sometimes baby may seem to not like a new food. As frustrating as this may feel, try to remain neutral. Keep offering these foods regularly as research shows it may take 10 (or more!) introductions before a baby accepts a new food. Avoid pressuring your baby to eat - it will help keep both her and your stress down during meal time.
This tip is from our Happy Mama Mentor Andie, RD, CLC and mom to Soren & Addison Also available to chat at: happyfamilyorganics.com/chat
TIPS & TRICKS
To help navigate feeding your 8 month old AI
M FO R
2 to 3
MEALS
each about the size of her fist
Add Flavor...
to your baby’s foods with fresh or dried herbs & spices. These new & interesting flavors will help expand your baby’s flavor palate.
Let baby grab that spoon! It’s never too early to let your child experiment with eating with utensils. It can be surprising how well they can manage getting that spoon to their mouths!
Babies often explore new foods with their hands, by getting messy. This can help them get more comfortable with new foods. Try feeding your baby in only a diaper to allow them to explore without so much dirty laundry. At this age, you may notice that your baby is becoming increasingly interested in feeding himself. When he does, it’s important to provide many opportunities for him to practice this skill! A good way to start is to place a few pieces of food on his tray, such as banana or avocado. Let him feel it. It may seem as if he is just playing with it, but that’s actually how he learns!