Introducing new foods in your child’s diet can be stressful. If your child is anything like my daughter, you will have to sneak new foods into their meals. For example, I introduced bananas by smashing it into her morning baby cereal. Over time she developed a taste for bananas on their own. I continued to smash new fruits and vegetables into her cereal. That way she has a variety of fruits and vegetables to choose from. Always remember to check with your child’s doctor regarding your child’s diet. I recommend holding off on chips, soda and sweets. The day I introduced cheese puffs to my daughter was a mistake. She now chooses cheese puffs over her regularly scheduled meals. Instead of cheese puffs as snacks, I give her fruits and veggies. My daughter gravitated towards healthier food, because I did not introduce junk food right away. I am able to use junk food as a reward, because it is not allowed in her regular diet. Children can be stubborn and reject new foods. Don’t give up on introducing new food.
- Keep it Simple
- Combine new food in the food your child already eats
- Prolong the introduction of junk food in your child’s diet
- Use junk food as a treat, not a everyday selection
- Don’t give up, children can be stubborn
- Be aware of major food allergies, such as peanuts and dairy in some babies.
- Be aware of choking hazard foods. Remember you are introducing new foods to your baby that he/she have not had before.
- Keep it simple. Giving your child too many different options of foods on their plates, can direct them.
- Finger foods can also be helpful in transitioning to new foods
Alert your doctor right away if a new food option causes a rash, allergy or swelling.