Baby Talk - 11/9/17

Baby’s taste buds will be tingling with the following baby-friendly Thanksgiving menu:

• Turkey sliced into very small pieces is suitable, if baby is used to eating solids and has been introduced to meats. Hold the gravy, as that could upset baby’s tummy.

• Potatoes are a good source of fiber for baby. For early solid food eaters, mashed potatoes are usually the best option. As with the turkey, best to avoid gravy at this time.

• Stuffing is reserved for more experienced eaters, generally 10 months or older. Be careful to avoid chestnuts and dried fruits, if you include these ingredients in your stuffing, as they may pose choking hazards for baby.

• Green beans without any seasoning is a good way for baby to obtain a serving of vegetables. A green bean puree is perfect for babies six months or older, while a self-feeder can manage beans cut into small pieces.

• Sweet potatoes without the butter, milk, and added seasonings are fine for baby. A simple sweet potato puree is appropriate if baby is new to solid food, fork-mashed if baby is slightly older, and small cubes for a self-feeder.

• Cranberries are acidic in nature and often not introduced to baby until several months after starting to eat solids. If your baby is younger than 10-12 months, you may want to replace the cranberries with applesauce.

• Pumpkin pie is something that baby will need to wait on until next year! The next best thing is to set aside some of the pumpkin puree used to make your pie. What a great way to end the meal!

Have a great Thanksgiving and enjoy the leftovers!

What other ideas do you have for baby’s first Thanksgiving? Please, share.